Water shortages and the emergence of new environmental zones - climate change and its impact on soil moisture
The climate crisis, one of the greatest challenges of our time, is becoming ever more tangible and its effects ever more evident. Paradoxically, one of the main causes of the alarming rise in CO2 emissions is the lack of water. This leads to dry soil, which in turn produces more particulate matter and favours the creation of new environmental zones.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), CO2 emissions from the energy sector reached a record high of 37.4 billion tonnes in 2023. This 1.1 per cent increase on the previous year is partly due to extreme drought and lower rainfall in countries such as the USA and China. Water shortages prevented the full utilisation of hydropower capacity, which meant that the lack of electricity had to be compensated for by fossil fuels.
The increased CO2 emissions and the associated drying out of the soil have a serious impact on the environment. Particularly affected are arid areas, which are coming under increasing pressure due to climate change. There is a threat of further droughts and water shortages, which in turn drive up CO2 emissions.
The drying out of the soil also leads to an increase in particulate matter levels. Dry soils release more dust and pollutants, which have a negative impact on air quality. If the limit values are exceeded, the most likely consequence is the establishment of new environmental zones and driving bans.
In cities and urban centres, this may mean that new environmental zones have to be introduced. The increased electricity consumption for air conditioning systems and the associated CO2 emissions will also exacerbate the situation.
Overall, it is clear that water shortages and their impact on soil moisture play a significant role in exacerbating the climate crisis. They not only lead to an increase in CO2 emissions, but also to the creation of new environmental zones.