Write an argumentative 8 PARAGRAPH essay answering the question “Is Freshwater Important?”
YOU MUST USE THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES
Article 1 - “How Water Loss Affects Biodiversity”
Article 2 - “Dwindling Freshwater Resources”
Your argumentative essay must be based on this prompt and topic, and it must incorporate ideas and evidence found in the sources provided above.
Use your best writing to complete an essay that is focused on your claim/position;
combines evidence from multiple sources with your own elaboration to develop your ideas;
rebuts at least one counterclaim with reasoning;
is organized and includes transitions within and among ideas;
provides citations for quoted material and source ideas; and
demonstrates correct use of grammar and language appropriate to the task.
Freshwater is a vital resource that is essential for the survival of both humans and the environment. It plays a crucial role in supporting various ecosystems, providing drinking water, and sustaining agricultural activities. While there may be arguments against the importance of freshwater, evidence from articles such as "How Water Loss Affects Biodiversity" and "Dwindling Freshwater Resources" highlights the significance of freshwater and the potential consequences of its depletion.
One of the key reasons freshwater is important is its role in supporting biodiversity. According to "How Water Loss Affects Biodiversity," the loss of freshwater habitats has a detrimental impact on numerous species. Many organisms, such as fish, amphibians, and insects, rely on freshwater environments for their survival. The depletion of these habitats disrupts the delicate balance of ecosystems and can lead to the extinction of species. Therefore, preserving freshwater resources is crucial to maintain biodiversity and ensure the long-term stability of our planet's ecosystems.
Furthermore, freshwater is essential for sustaining human life. Without access to clean water, individuals are at a higher risk of waterborne diseases and malnutrition. In many regions around the world, access to freshwater is already limited, and the situation is only expected to worsen due to climate change and human activities. The article "Dwindling Freshwater Resources" emphasizes the growing scarcity of freshwater and highlights the need for sustainable water management practices to ensure a reliable supply of safe drinking water for everyone.
In addition to supporting ecosystems and human life, freshwater is vital for agricultural activities. Agriculture is a major consumer of water, and without it, food production would be severely impacted. According to the same article, around 70% of the world's freshwater resources are used for irrigation purposes. With a growing global population and increasing demand for food, the availability of freshwater resources becomes even more critical. If we neglect the importance of freshwater, the agricultural sector would suffer, leading to food shortages and economic instability.
While some might argue that alternative sources of water, such as desalination or water recycling, can compensate for the depletion of freshwater, these methods are not without their limitations. Desalination, for instance, is an expensive and energy-intensive process that is not feasible in all regions. Moreover, the quality of recycled water may not always meet the standards required for certain uses, such as drinking water. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the conservation and efficient use of freshwater resources to ensure a sustainable future.
In conclusion, freshwater is undeniably important for both the environment and human civilization. Evidence from "How Water Loss Affects Biodiversity" and "Dwindling Freshwater Resources" clearly demonstrates the significance of freshwater in supporting biodiversity, sustaining human life, and enabling agricultural activities. Preserving and managing freshwater resources should be a priority to avoid the potential consequences of their depletion. While alternative water sources may provide some relief, they cannot replace the unique qualities and essential functions of freshwater. Thus, we must recognize the importance of freshwater and take necessary actions to protect and conserve this precious resource.