Question

Which of the following is the most likely cause for future water shortages?
a.
global warming
b.
increased agriculture
c.
water pollution
d.
erosion

Answer 1

b. increased agriculture

Reason: Agriculture accounts for the largest share of freshwater use (often ~70% worldwide). As population and food demand (and water‑intensive crops/livestock production) increase, demand for irrigation will drive shortages. (Global warming and pollution also worsen supply and quality, but rising agricultural water use is the primary driver.)