Annual freshwater withdrawals, agriculture (% of total freshwater withdrawal)

This indicator provides a comprehensive view of the proportion of freshwater used for agricultural purposes, including irrigation and livestock, as part of overall freshwater extraction. It highlights the critical role agriculture plays in water consumption, emphasizing that the figures account for all types of withdrawal methods, including significant contributions from desalination and potential overuse from nonrenewable aquifers. The data, covering the years 1987 to 2002, reveal trends in water resource management and agricultural dependency, enabling policymakers to assess sustainability and plan for future water needs. Understanding this metric is essential for addressing water scarcity challenges, optimizing agricultural practices, and ensuring food security in an era of increasing demand and environmental stress. Source: