At first glance, the connection may not seem obvious. Yet the reality is clear. As a result of climate change, the planet is experiencing a growing number of extreme weather events. In many parts of the world, particularly in regions that are already vulnerable, the consequences are becoming increasingly visible. One of the most directly affected areas is access to safe, reliable drinking water.
Climate scientists agree that these pressures are likely to intensify in the years ahead. In this short feature, we explore how climate disruption affects the water cycle, and what this means in practical terms for access to drinking water.
Global warming and access to drinking water: what is the link?
Each year on 22 March, World Water Day draws attention to the importance of protecting water resources worldwide. Yet access to water is under growing strain, driven by human activity, population growth and climate patterns that continue to accelerate global warming.
Industrial processes release large quantities of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat and intensify the natural greenhouse effect, leading to a steady rise in global temperatures.
Since the mid-19th century, global temperatures have increased significantly, with warming accelerating throughout the 20th century. According to the UK Met Office and international climate research bodies, continued emissions could push average global temperature rise towards 1.5°C — and potentially 2°C — by the end of the century.
In practical terms, this has direct implications for water access. Even in developed countries, reliable drinking water cannot be taken for granted. England is already classified as water-stressed, with recurring droughts, supply restrictions and rising demand placing sustained pressure on water systems. More broadly, the right to water — defined as access to sufficient, affordable and safe water for personal use — is under increasing strain worldwide.
The impact of climate disruption on access to drinking water
Climate change affects the entire hydrological cycle. Altered rainfall patterns, disrupted run-off and more frequent extreme weather events all influence both the availability and quality of water resources.
More intense drought in certain regions
Rising temperatures contribute to longer and more severe droughts in many parts of the world. In subtropical and high-altitude regions, water resources are being depleted more rapidly as prolonged dry periods limit natural replenishment.
Access to drinking water depends on sufficient volumes stored in groundwater reserves and rivers. As these sources decline, meeting everyday domestic needs becomes increasingly difficult.
In some areas, communities are forced to rely primarily on surface water, which is often more exposed to pollution and unsafe for direct consumption. Water scarcity is one of the most immediate and visible consequences of climate disruption.
Looking ahead, international studies suggest that within the next few decades, hundreds of millions of children worldwide could lack access to safe drinking water, particularly in regions where resources are already limited.
Saltwater intrusion into freshwater reserves
Global warming is accelerating the melting of polar ice and glaciers. These glaciers play an essential role in storing freshwater and releasing it gradually during dry seasons, supporting ecosystems and downstream communities.
As ice melts and seawater warms and expands, sea levels continue to rise. Since the 1990s, average sea level rise has exceeded 3 mm per year. In coastal regions without adequate protection or storage infrastructure, seawater can infiltrate freshwater reserves, contaminating them and reducing their suitability for drinking.
Changes to the chemical and biological balance of water
Rising temperatures also affect both surface and deep-water environments. While these changes may appear gradual, they can alter the chemical and biological balance of water sources. For example, shifts in temperature can influence pH levels and the behaviour of microorganisms.
When water systems are compromised, pathogens can spread more easily, increasing the risk of waterborne illness in affected regions.
Heavier rainfall and flooding in other regions
In other parts of the world, particularly across sections of the northern hemisphere, climate disruption is associated with more frequent and intense rainfall. When natural and built water-retention systems are overwhelmed, heavy rain can lead to flooding, erosion, landslides and damage to infrastructure.
Greater mobility of pollutants
More intense rainfall places wastewater treatment and drainage systems under strain. When capacity is exceeded, untreated wastewater can be released into the environment, increasing the spread of pollutants and waterborne disease.
Run-off can carry contaminants into rivers and underground aquifers, making water unsafe for consumption. Industrial activity also contributes chemical compounds to rainwater, further increasing pressure on freshwater reserves.
According to international assessments, a significant proportion of the global population is expected to experience water stress in the coming years.
The United Nations has repeatedly warned that climate change will increasingly affect water services, availability and quality worldwide, placing pressure on the fundamental human right to safe drinking water and sanitation.
Climate disruption and limited access to drinking water: what solutions exist?
Water is unevenly distributed across the globe and increasingly threatened by climate disruption. Reducing pressure on water resources requires long-term, sustainable approaches that involve public authorities, communities and households alike.
One approach gaining wider attention is the transition towards a circular water economy, which focuses on reducing waste, improving efficiency and reusing water where appropriate.
Unlike linear models based on extraction, consumption and disposal, circular approaches encourage better management of water throughout its lifecycle. Practical measures include:
- Choosing showers over baths;
- Detecting and repairing leaks early;
- Using water-efficient appliances;
- Installing flow regulators on taps;
- Encouraging local and industrial water reuse;
- Recovering and reusing water for non-potable purposes;
- Improving tap water quality through appropriate household filtration.
At a household level, simple solutions can also make a meaningful difference. Gravity-fed water filters, such as those developed by Weeplow, offer a way to improve tap water quality without electricity or complex installation. Used alongside responsible water habits, they can support safer everyday use while reducing reliance on bottled water.
Ultimately, circular water management aims to use resources more effectively so that water remains available over the long term. Given that much drinking water comes from slowly renewable sources such as groundwater, improving how water is produced, used and protected will be key to reducing future water scarcity.
