Many developing countries rely heavily on irrigation. In all regions, except Europe and North America, agriculture is by far the biggest user of water, accounting worldwide for almost 70 percent of water use, with domestic use. According to Ms. Fresco, irrigation can contribute to food security by increasing local food production. It also helps rural people increase their incomes. Policy reforms should encourage the private sector to invest in improved water management, while protecting the rights of the poorest people by ensuring more equitable access to water.
Further progress is needed towards agreements on the shared use of limited water resources.
She added that pollution caused by too much fertilizer and pesticide use, particularly in irrigation schemes, could now be prevented through integrated pest and plant nutrient management.