Describe an environmental problem – Clean Water Shortage

🗂️ Part 2 – Cue Card

🗣️ Sample Answer

Examiner: You have one to two minutes. Please begin speaking now.

Candidate (Reeva Shah):
One significant environmental issue we face today is the scarcity of clean water. Even though water covers most of the Earth’s surface, only a small percentage is suitable for drinking and daily use.

This issue has existed for decades but has become worse in the last 10–20 years due to population growth, pollution, industrial waste, and climate change. Many areas in India and around the world still lack access to safe and clean drinking water.

The impact of this problem is huge. It affects public health, especially among children. Waterborne diseases, such as cholera and diarrhoea, are common. It also impacts education, as children—especially girls—have to skip school to fetch water. In rural areas, people must walk long distances just to obtain a few litres of water.

To address this, we need to enhance water management, invest in rainwater harvesting, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable conservation practices. Governments should invest in better infrastructure, and individuals must conserve water and help keep rivers and lakes clean.

Clean water should not be a luxury—it’s a basic human right, and we must protect it.

Examiner: Thank you. Have you seen any improvement in your area?

Candidate: Yes, some schools and communities have started installing water filters and collecting rainwater, which is a good step forward.

🔁 Part 3: Follow-Up Questions

1. What causes environmental problems like water scarcity?
Environmental problems, such as water scarcity, are often caused by overpopulation, rapid urbanisation, and inadequate waste management. Industrial discharge and agricultural runoff also contribute to water pollution. Additionally, deforestation and climate change disturb the natural water cycle, worsening the issue.

2. What should governments do to protect the environment?
Governments should implement strict regulations to control pollution and protect natural resources. They must also invest in sustainable infrastructure, such as water treatment plants and rainwater harvesting systems. Raising public awareness through education campaigns is equally important for long-term impact.

3. What can individuals do to help protect the environment?
Individuals can contribute by using water wisely, avoiding single-use plastics, and recycling household waste. They should also participate in community clean-up drives and promote environmental awareness. Every small effort matters when adopted on a large scale.

4. What other measures can help protect the environment?
Promoting renewable energy, incentivising eco-friendly businesses, and creating more green spaces in urban areas are effective strategies. Governments can also ban harmful chemicals and support research in sustainable technologies. International cooperation is essential to address global environmental challenges.

5. How should children be educated about environmental issues?
Children should learn through hands-on activities, such as school gardening and nature-based field trips. Incorporating environmental topics in the curriculum helps them understand the urgency of the issue. Parents and teachers must also serve as role models by practising what they teach.

6. How do the younger and older generations differ in environmental awareness?
Younger generations are more exposed to environmental issues through social media and school education. They are often more proactive and willing to adopt eco-friendly habits. In contrast, older generations may be less aware but tend to follow sustainable practices out of tradition.

7. Do you think environmental issues affect urban and rural areas differently?
Yes, urban areas struggle more with air and industrial pollution, while rural areas face problems like water scarcity and deforestation. Access to environmental resources and awareness levels also differ significantly. Solutions must be tailored to meet the unique needs of each region.

8. How does climate change affect water availability?
Climate change alters rainfall patterns and increases the frequency of droughts, making water less predictable and accessible. Melting glaciers and rising temperatures also impact freshwater sources. As a result, many communities are facing growing challenges in securing safe drinking water.

9. Why is clean water considered a human right?
Clean water is essential for survival, hygiene, and overall health, making it a fundamental necessity. Without it, people are vulnerable to disease and poverty. Recognising it as a human right ensures that everyone, regardless of income or location, has access to this vital resource.

10. Can technology help solve water-related environmental problems?
Yes, technology can play a vital role through innovations such as smart irrigation systems, water purification systems, and leak detection sensors. These tools help conserve water and make clean sources more accessible. Governments and industries must invest in scalable, tech-based solutions for long-term impact.

Top 10 Topic Vocabulary – Describe an environmental problem – Clean Water Shortage