A new report by the Global Commission on the Economics of Water warns that the world is approaching a "water disaster" as the hydrological cycle has been thrown off balance for the first time in human history. The report highlights that regions with high population and agricultural activity, such as parts of India, China, and Europe, will bear the brunt of inaction. The report emphasizes that economic policies have overlooked "green water" – freshwater stored in soils and vegetation – leading to unprecedented stress on the global water cycle.

Areas with dense populations and intensive irrigation are at the highest risk, with water storage on and beneath the Earth’s surface rapidly declining. Hotspots like northwestern India, northeastern China, and southern Europe are particularly vulnerable. The report notes that the poorest populations, who depend heavily on land-based water sources, will suffer the most from deforestation. Furthermore, if water storage continues to decrease, irrigation could become unfeasible, potentially leading to a 23% drop in global cereal production.

The report calls for a radical shift in the global approach to water management, recognizing water as a global common good. It stresses the interconnectedness of the water cycle with climate change and biodiversity loss, urging global cooperation to meet Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, it recommends ensuring a minimum of 4,000 liters per person per day as a basic water requirement for a dignified life.