Water, somewhat like matter and energy, is not really created or destroyed. Water is mostly captured, used and recycled. The exception to this is electrolysis of water in which the hydrogen and oxygen molecular bonds can be broken. But there are very few instances where electrolysis is used in any large scale form. This fact would actually militate for the use of hydrogen fuel cells in vehicle transportation systems since fuel cell chemistry involves oxidizing hydrogen to create electricity.
We live on a planet that is covered in water. Evaporation from the oceans forms atmospheric water that precipitates out as rain. The global jet streams that arise from the planet’s rotation have a great deal to do with where the water goes. Annual rains in the fall and spring provide and winter snow creates run off that feeds rivers and replenishes underground aquifers. Humans beings use water and process water for agricultural and industrial use.
The problem is that water resources are mismanaged. We are running out of water, we are simply not managing it correctly. In large measure this is a government problem. Municipal, State and Federal authorities are responsible for management of water resources and over the years. Governments turn over every few years so there is poor continuity except that legislation and regulations that are enacted remain in force, even if they are wrong. Government as an institution is incapable of appreciating the science and technology involved. Worse still, the presence of lobbying forces tends to influence regulatory policy to conflict with real public interest.
The core issues is and treatment. Water in cities is mostly recycled.
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