The United States is facing a water shortage that is leading to the third year in a row of drought. Many say that while we are focusing mostly on oil in the next few years the attitude will adjust as many see water shortages. Water is a resource that is being over used in the US and may become very difficult to acquire in the future. Additionally, a water shortage means less agriculture production and other affects.
I do believe that water is a resource that needs to be dealt with because of the recent shortages. I think one of the main problems is the increasing amount of people that are consuming earth’s resources. Without constraining population the amount of resources will continue to deplete because it is more difficult to change human thinking or consumption patterns. However, I do think the problem is related to climate change in the way that in a few decades China will have less water to provide for Southern Asia. Glaciers are melting and may not be replenished. Therefore, I think it is crucial that water is kept in mind during National and international discussions on the environment or resources.
http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/science/12/11/drought.problem/index.html
You raise an interesting and important issue. It would sure be good to see a bit more analysis on this.