Dam capacity per capita 1984

In 1984, the metric of dam capacity per capita provided a crucial insight into the availability and management of water resources in different countries, expressed as the amount of water storage available per individual in cubic meters. This measure not only highlighted the disparities in water resource management across the globe but also underscored its importance in terms of sustainability, agriculture, industry, and community well-being. Understanding the variation in dam capacity per capita helps in assessing water security and strategizing resource allocation for future demands.

Overview of Global Statistics in 1984

The year 1984 saw significant variations in dam capacity per capita across 126 countries. The maximum value was an astonishing 52,329.60 cubic meters per inhabitant, recorded in Suriname, while Papua New Guinea, Belize, and Cambodia reported a minimum of zero. The average dam capacity per capita stood at 2,036.79 cubic meters, with a median of 267.35. These figures highlight the stark differences in water storage capabilities that likely influence national policies concerning water-related infrastructure and management.

Top and Bottom Performers

Suriname led the global rankings with an impressive 52,329.60 cubic meters per inhabitant, attributed to abundant natural water resources and a relatively small population. Canada followed with 32,482.70 cubic meters, benefiting from vast freshwater lakes and rivers. Other notable countries with high dam capacities per capita included Zambia (15,368.70), Zimbabwe (11,761.30), and Ghana (11,106.80), reflecting substantial investment in water infrastructure relative to their population sizes.

Conversely, countries like Papua New Guinea, Belize, Cambodia, Rwanda, and Bhutan had no recordable dam capacity, indicating either underdevelopment in water infrastructure or a reliance on natural, non-dammed water sources. These differences shed light on varying regional challenges and priorities in resource management.

Regional Clustering and Patterns

A closer examination of regional patterns reveals that countries in regions with abundant natural freshwater resources or those investing heavily in dam infrastructure tend to have higher capacities. For instance, South American countries like Suriname and Paraguay displayed exceptionally high dam capacities, emphasizing the influence of natural landscape features and the strategic development of water resources. In contrast, many African and Asian countries with lower per capita figures faced challenges such as funding constraints, political instability, or a focus on other infrastructure priorities.

Year-Over-Year Changes and Trends

Analyzing changes from the previous year, Paraguay experienced the most significant increase, with an astounding 162.5% rise in dam capacity per capita to 6,747.56. This growth can be attributed to substantial investments in hydroelectric projects and irrigation schemes. Similarly, Iceland witnessed a 7.4% increase, enhancing its water storage capabilities. However, not all changes were positive; Zambia, Suriname, and Zimbabwe saw declines of 3.0%, 0.9%, and 3.5% respectively, potentially due to droughts, policy shifts, or resource reallocation.

Sustainability and Development Implications

The measure of dam capacity per capita in 1984 underscores the broader implications for sustainability and development. High dam capacities per inhabitant can provide a safety net against droughts and climate variability, ensuring water availability for agriculture, industry, and human consumption. Conversely, countries with lower capacities may face heightened risks of water scarcity, threatening food security and economic stability. This metric thus serves as a critical indicator for policymakers, emphasizing the need for strategic investments in water infrastructure to support sustainable development goals.

In conclusion, the 1984 data on dam capacity per capita brings to light the global disparities in water resource management and its critical role in supporting sustainable development. By understanding these patterns, countries can better plan for future water needs and address the challenges of ensuring equitable access to water resources across different regions.