Freshwater Quest: The Emerging Global Challenge (GS Paper 3, Environment)
Context
- As freshwater becomes an increasingly scarce resource, nations are turning their attention to exploring and exploiting freshwater reservoirs above and below the ocean bed, within their maritime zones.
- With only a small fraction of freshwater accessible on the surface, the search for new freshwater sources is becoming a pressing concern for many countries.
Legal Framework and UNCLOS
- The United Nations Law of the Sea Convention (UNCLOS) provides the legal framework for governing oceanic resources.
- However, customary international law remains a significant source of maritime law.
- While UNCLOS supersedes previous conventions on the law of the sea, non-signatory states may not recognize its provisions, leading to complexities in jurisdictional matters.
Exploration Beyond Exclusive Economic Zones
- Countries may expand their exploration efforts beyond their Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) into the "Area" defined by UNCLOS.
- This vast expanse, beyond national jurisdiction, is considered the common heritage of mankind, available for the benefit of all nations and future generations.
Emerging Challenges and Opportunities
- The depletion of freshwater resources is leading to concerns about future conflicts over water access and territorial expansion.
- As freshwater becomes scarcer, the exploration and extraction of freshwater from the "Area" under UNCLOS may become a viable solution.
- Just as oil wells are explored and capped for future use, freshwater wells could be identified and preserved for future generations.
International Cooperation and Sustainable Development Goals
- Addressing the challenges of freshwater scarcity requires international cooperation and legislative reforms.
- Developing a non-controversial legislative framework to govern exploratory activities for freshwater extraction from the "Area" should be a priority for the international community.
- India, with its commitment to Sustainable Development Goals, could play a leading role in facilitating this process.
Conclusion: A Global Imperative
- In a world where freshwater is becoming increasingly scarce, the quest for new freshwater sources is a global imperative.
- Rather than focusing solely on extraterrestrial exploration, addressing the challenges of freshwater scarcity on Earth should be a priority.
- By working together to develop sustainable solutions and legislative frameworks, nations can ensure equitable access to freshwater resources for future generations.
