Two articles published in the same journal have shown the importance of caring for global water resources from two separate perspectives.

One report has shown the incredible effort required to provide clean water to human populations, and why drinking water should be seen as a necessity which is in short supply.

A second report details how oil spills of various sizes an affect the marine environment.

Together, the two reports re-iterate that life on Earth could not exist without water, and all sources need to be protected for humans to use, and protected by humans for the rest of the planet’s inhabitants.

“Access to Safe Water: A paradox in developed nations” details the processes used to provide safe drinking water for members of developed nations.

The article is centred on fighting the common misconception that water is a ‘throwaway’ or overly abundant commodity. Perspectives on safe water need to change, the study says, because it is necessity, not a commodity.

Researchers say educating the public will create a push for better water management and other beneficial shifts.

The article “Oil Pollution in the Marine Environment: Inputs, Big Spills, Small Spills, and Dribbles” talks about the ways that oil spills (human-induced or otherwise) affect marine life.

One important point raised suggest there should be more clarity on claims of what specifically has been spilled, as different substances have very different effects.

“When we ask questions about the fate and effects of an oil spill or other oil inputs, we are asking questions about the fate and effects of a complex mixture of different hydrocarbons… nitrogen, oxygen, and sulphur containing material… even some small amounts of metals,” the study says.

Understanding these factors will help scientists work out which effects different amounts and types of oil have on marine environment.

As global populations grow, their thirst will increase too. Contrarily, expanding societies and industries tend to reduce their own access to clean water by damaging natural supplies. The water cycle must be approached form multiple directions if it is to be reset for the benefit of the planet.