Discuss the negative impacts of drought and how they can be managed. You must use case studies and/or articles to support your answer.
10 marks
Droughts have severe negative impacts on both the environment and society, including agricultural productivity, water scarcity, and economic losses. In order to effectively manage these impacts, various strategies can be implemented.
One of the main impacts of drought is on agriculture, as lack of water leads to crop failure and reduced yields. This results in food scarcity, higher food prices, and income loss for farmers. In a study conducted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), it was found that droughts have caused an estimated 20% reduction in crop yields in Africa and Asia over the last few decades (FAO, 2021). To manage this impact, farmers can adopt drought-resistant crop varieties, improve water-use efficiency through proper irrigation techniques, and implement water-saving agricultural practices.
Another significant impact of drought is water scarcity, as lack of rainfall leads to depletion of water sources such as rivers, lakes, and groundwater. This can have serious consequences for both drinking water supply and sanitation services. A case study from the World Bank Group highlights the severe drought in Cape Town, South Africa, where the city almost ran out of water in 2018, leading to strict water rationing and economic losses (World Bank, 2021). To manage water scarcity during droughts, water conservation measures can be implemented, such as fixing leaky pipes, using water-efficient appliances, and promoting water recycling.
Droughts also have economic impacts, as reduced agricultural productivity and water scarcity can lead to losses in revenue and investment. A study by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) found that droughts in the United States have caused an estimated $6 billion in damages annually (NOAA, 2021). To manage these economic impacts, governments can provide financial assistance to affected communities, develop drought contingency plans, and promote alternative livelihoods to reduce dependency on agriculture.
In conclusion, droughts have severe negative impacts on the environment and society, but with effective management strategies, these impacts can be mitigated. By implementing measures such as drought-resistant crops, water conservation practices, and financial assistance programs, the impacts of drought can be reduced and communities can become more resilient to future drought events.