BayG.A.P. SERVICE PROGRAM MODULE 3
INTRO
IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
Water supplies are naturally limited resources. Agriculture consumes about 70% of global water
withdrawals and, as agricultural fields are expected to increase more than 17% in the next three
decades, the amount of water needed for agriculture will considerably increase as well.
Therefore, efficiency is critical when it comes to watering. Farmers should consider several factors
prior to watering. Nowadays, efficiency at watering is estimated at 38% worldwide. However, it is
expected to improve by 4% by 2030 using adequate techniques and professional irrigation manage-
ment practices. For example, weather forecasts, equipment conditions or timing need to be consid-
ered. The following list summarizes some key points about water consumption and irrigation:
• Around 5,000 litres of water are needed to
produce the daily food of one person
• More than 50% of river sites in Europe
and Southern Asia are dedicated to agri-
culture. This accounts for over 30% in the
U.S., Northern Africa, Southeast Asia and
Australia
• 40% of the world food supply comes from
irrigated areas even though these are only
20% of the total agricultural area
• Up to 25 extra litres per person could be
available if water productivity improved by
1% in agriculture
The information above makes clear the potential benefits of improving water efficiency. However,
to achieve these goals advanced practices must be adopted and technological progress must be
seized in equipment. Infrastructures for agriculture must be improved and rain-fed crop areas must
be extended. This would enable a sustainable water scenario and can only be achieved with the
strong commitment of all stakeholders.
Everyone participating in the food
value chain is encouraged to contribute
to a sustainable water scenario!
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