The global hydro-economic network creates vulnerabilities for distant drought and water conflicts through trade connections. The water footprint maps this water supply chain network.
This talk presents the first economically complete and spatially detailed water footprint for a major country: the United States. It also explores the implications of the hydro-economic network for anticipating global business, security, and geopolitical problems in a 21st century characterized by drought, climate change, and unsustainable water demands.
This information provides important foresight for international business and security interests, allowing us to invest in security and water in the right locations; to anticipate water-induced conflict; and to proactively manage the water supply chain to avoid problems.