FAO predicts that by 2050 agricultural water needs will increase by 50% to meet the increased food demand of a growing population. Freshwater is becoming increasingly scarce on the planet due to its mismanagement, reckless use and climate change.

In recent years, agricultural regions all over the world have come under increasing water stress. Severe droughts in Chile and the United States have affected agricultural production and reduced surface and groundwater supplies.

These and other extreme weather events such as floods and tropical storms are also expected to become more frequent.