Role of technology in solving future problems

Question 1

Technology can help increase both water supply and access. Examples include:

Answer 1

• Desalination – provides 70% of Saudi Arabia’s water but it is the most expensive option for
  water supply due to its energy use
• Towing flexible polypropylene bags will with freshwater has been propose e.g. Kielder to Essex
• USA uses reverse osmosis membrane technology to filter salt from brackish water

Question 2

In developing countries ore intermediate technology is more appropriate:

Answer 2

• Water collection e.g. catching rainwater or building small dams
• Wells built by NGOs e.g. Water Aid
• Using plastic or glass bottles filled with contaminated water exposed to the sun for 6 hours
  destroys micro-organisms