What is the majority of the world's water used for?

The majority of the world's water is used for agriculture due to the essential role it plays in food production. Irrigation practices in farming require significant amounts of water to cultivate crops, which makes agriculture the largest consumer of global freshwater resources. This is particularly essential in regions where rainfall is insufficient for growing crops, necessitating the use of irrigation systems to ensure adequate water supply. Agricultural activities not only include the growing of crops but also the raising of livestock, both of which require substantial water for hydration and feeding.

Other sectors like households, industry, and sewage disposal also utilize water, but they collectively account for a much smaller proportion compared to agriculture. This emphasis on agriculture highlights the importance of water management practices in sustaining food security and addressing the growing challenges of water scarcity and climate change. Understanding this allocation of water resources can help inform policies and practices aimed at balancing the needs of different sectors while ensuring sustainability.