Do you believe fresh water will be the "oil" of the 21st cenury?

Question

Lot's of countries have shortages of water. If the importing and distribution of fresh water becomes important, the whole economic geography of the world could change. For example Canada has something like 21% of the world's fresh water supply. Saudi Arabia has none,

Do you believe this?

Answer 1

No

Because they are predicting it - like Y2K and food shortages, this one will be another red herring.  The real problem will be something that is obscure and whoever believes it won't be widely published until after it happens.

Answer 2

You could possibly not die from the lack of oil, but try not drinking water for 3 days...  I think you get the picture.

Consider climate change as well as the scale and rate of pollution going on in the world to date.  We could possibly project water as a key resource under threat.  Australia is a good example with extreme drought setting in.  Prices for water as well as water conservation efforts have been stepped up.  

Looking at the amount of water resources left in the world, it is definitely becoming scarce.  There is a substantial amount of R&D going into alternative fuels  and energy sources. We are similarly seeing an increase in water filtration technologies and research as well.

Just observe the pricing of water over the years, it's becoming more expensive and not cheaper (just like oil).  If we are already fighting over oil, which essentially not key to survival (i.e. we go back to cave man days or use alternative energy sources!), imagine what we will do over water, which is essential for our bare survival....  Scary thought but well timed question.  Good to ask it now and not later....

Answer 3

I think that the Diamond-Water paradox will likely reverse in our lifetimes. Diamonds will become worthless and water will become priceless. Just my humble opinion.

Answer 4

Could be!  Very interesting question!

Answer 5

No. Technology is advancing so fast that soon it will be cheap to convert sea water to fresh water. Also there is moisture in the air. If there isn't already there soon will be technology to do this.

Answer 6

I actually heard that if moon rocks contains H3(helium 3) which can provide energy for thousands of years and help fight global warming. Also when moon dust is heated at a percise temperature it is converted into fresh water! I think thats pretty amazing!

Answer 7

yea i heard that water may be a cause for war in the future on some documentary on the t.v so i suppose it is possible

Answer 8

Wars can easily start over water.  I think is is probable.  

In terms of using water as energy, I think is is unlikely because of the unusual bond.