Dam capacity per capita 1987

In 1987, the metric of "Dam capacity per capita" emerged as a crucial indicator of water resource management on a global scale. It measures the amount of water storage available for each individual in a country, expressed in cubic meters. This statistic is integral for understanding how nations manage their water resources, impacting sustainability, development, and water security. As water is essential for agriculture, industry, and communities, analyzing dam capacity per capita provides valuable insights into a country's readiness to meet these challenges.

Global Dam Capacity Landscape in 1987

The year 1987 showcased a diverse range of dam capacities across different countries, highlighting significant disparities in water resource management. With data from 129 countries, the dam capacity per capita varied immensely, from a minimum of 0 cubic meters in countries like Papua New Guinea, Belize, and Cambodia, to a staggering maximum of 50,389.10 cubic meters in Suriname. The global average stood at 1,997.13 cubic meters, with a median value of 264.65 cubic meters. This wide range underscores the variability in water resource infrastructure, influenced by geographic, climatic, and political factors.

Leading Nations in Water Storage

In 1987, Suriname led the world with the highest dam capacity per capita at 50,389.10 cubic meters, a reflection of its abundant water resources and relatively small population. Other top performers included Canada (31,422.8 cubic meters), Zambia (14,063.3 cubic meters), and Zimbabwe (10,639.4 cubic meters). These figures highlight the strategic importance of water management in countries with vast natural water reserves. Canada's extensive reservoirs, for instance, are critical not only for domestic consumption but also for hydroelectric power generation, which supports both local and export economies.

Regional Disparities and Countries at the Lower End

Conversely, several countries exhibited minimal or zero dam capacity per capita, such as Papua New Guinea, Belize, and Cambodia. These nations faced challenges in water infrastructure development, often due to economic constraints or geographical barriers. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (1.59 cubic meters) and Jamaica (2.34 cubic meters) also ranked low, indicating potential vulnerabilities in water security. These disparities highlight the need for targeted investments in water infrastructure, particularly in developing regions, to ensure equitable access and sustainable development.

Year-on-Year Trends and Changes

The analysis of year-on-year changes reveals noteworthy trends. Despite maintaining its top position, Suriname experienced a slight decrease of -588.40 cubic meters per capita, a 1.2% reduction, possibly due to population growth outpacing dam expansion. Similarly, other leading nations like Zambia and Canada saw declines of -412.30 and -395.50 cubic meters, respectively. On the other hand, countries like Norway and Togo saw significant increases, with Norway's capacity growing by 559.32 cubic meters, an 8.9% rise, and Togo's increasing by a remarkable 467.47 cubic meters, albeit from a much lower base. These changes reflect ongoing efforts and challenges in water management strategies worldwide.

Sustainability and Future Outlook

As water demand continues to rise, sustainability in dam capacity becomes increasingly important. In 1987, the focus on sustainable water resource management was gaining traction, setting the stage for future developments. Countries with high dam capacity per capita, like Canada and Norway, were well-positioned to leverage their water resources for economic growth, while those with lower capacities faced pressing challenges. Moving forward, international cooperation and investment in water infrastructure will be critical to bridging the gap between nations and ensuring that all have access to the water resources necessary for their development and survival.

In conclusion, the global statistics from 1987 on dam capacity per capita present a tapestry of opportunities and challenges in water resource management. By understanding these complexities, countries can better address water security issues, enhance agricultural productivity, and support industrial and community needs. As we look back at this data, it becomes evident that water infrastructure investments made in the past continue to shape the present and future of sustainable development across the globe.