Human beings and ecological systems depend on water for survival (Kenneth). No human, animal or plant can survive for long without this essential commodity. For us humans, water is the driving force behind most of our economic and recreational activities. For example, we rely on water for energy production in industries, transportation and outdoor recreation. Most of us also depend on water for the provision of amenities and cultural values. Barlow and Clarke argue that we cannot simply eliminate the freshwater crisis we face today (25). For us, fresh water is essential for direct consumption. A large majority of plants and animals also rely on fresh water to survive. Experts predict that if we don't take good care of our water resources, a huge water crisis is looming. Since life generally depends on water, it is imperative for us to adopt solutions that will promote water conservation. Fresh water is a fixed natural resource (Gleick 3). This implies that the supply of fresh water we have in our hydrological cycle cannot increase. According to Barlow and Clarke, almost anything done in the industrialized world risks worsening the already existing freshwater crisis (206). By not conserving the water we use, we run the risk of depleting all the fresh water we depend on. Studies have already shown that we are rapidly running out of fresh water supplies around the world. This is due to falling water levels in rivers, lakes and underground aquifers. The consequences of the lack of fresh water for consumption are considerable. For example, there would be an increase in cases of waterborne diseases, a decrease in economic production, a decrease in agricultural productivity... middle of document......A guide to global freshwater resources . New York: Oxford University Press, 1993. 3. Print. Jackson, S. Ron. Conserving water, drinking wine: memories of a vinous voyage of discovery. New York: Routledge, 1997. 34. Print. Kenneth, Frederick. "America's Water Supply: Status and Future Prospects." » US Global Change Research Information Office. Np, November 11, 2004. Web. April 7, 2015..McCarthy, John. “The fresh water problem.” Stanford University. Np, January 16, 1996. Web. April 7, 2015..McGovern, Cheryl and Bastian Robert. “Recycling and reuse of water: the environmental benefits.” United States Environmental Protection Agency. EPA Southwest Pacific, March 24, 2008. Web. April 7 2015..