Water resources

Abstract

Water resources are no less than any surface or underground water that can be obtained and available for human use, such as rivers, lakes, streams, groundwater, etc. In economics, it plays a fundamental role, since it is an alternative energy source, and the electricity generated by hydroelectric plants is the most important and used energy source in Brazil. This vital natural resource is important, especially as a consequence of the growing supply crisis and the degradation risk which can be seen in the freshwater ecosystems of our planet. As we know, the population growth, economic expansion and the impact that industry produces mainly through the increase of the agricultural frontier and the irregular use of pesticides, the illegal occupation of the soil, irregular sanitary treatment of waste and lack of awareness of the problem, are among the major causes of increased degradation seen in water resources. However, these causes can be minimized if we become aware of the importance of water, and if we get informed about the projective laws and proper forms of its use. As the undergraduate courses around the country are still few and the employability is high, the new graduates are usually immediately hired. Water resources are essential to life on Earth, the water, nowadays, is the most used element by humans, seeking energy generation, irrigation, watershed management, drainage, water supply, fisheries, recreation and even more. Hydrology is the science that studies the distribution, handling, quality, pollution and decontamination of water. Many projects and ideas can be developed though this study, in order to meet the needs of the human population.