This table provides metadata for the actual indicator available from UK statistics closest to the corresponding global SDG indicator. Please note that even when the global SDG indicator is fully available from UK statistics, this table should be consulted for information on national methodology and other UK-specific metadata information.
| Indicator available |
Level of water stress - freshwater withdrawal as a proportion of available freshwater resources |
|---|---|
| Indicator description |
This indicator provides an estimate of pressure by all sectors on the country’s renewable freshwater resources. A low level of water stress indicates a situation where the combined withdrawal by all sectors is marginal in relation to the resources, and has therefore little potential impact on the sustainability of the resources or on the potential competition between users. A high level of water stress indicates a situation where the combined withdrawal by all sectors represents a substantial share of the total renewable freshwater resources, with potentially larger impacts on the sustainability of the resources and potential situations of conflicts and competition between users. |
| Geographical coverage |
United Kingdom |
| Unit of measurement |
Percentage (%) |
| Definitions |
Level of water stress is an estimate of pressure from all sectors on the country’s renewable freshwater resources. Established as the ratio between total freshwater withdrawn by all major sectors and total renewable freshwater resources, after taking into account environmental flow requirements. Major sectors are defined as agriculture, forestry and fishing, manufacturing, electricity industry, and services. Above 25% of water stress, four classes have been identified to signal different levels of stress severity; - No stress <25% - Low 25% - 50% - Medium 50% - 75% - High 75-100% - Critical >100% |
| Available disaggregations |
|
| Calculations |
No calculations were performed in the data acquisition of this indicator as appropriate data was readily available in the final format specified by this indicator. |
| Other information |
A Low-level of water stress indicates the withdrawal of freshwater by sector is marginal compared to available resources. High-level water stress indicates the combined withdrawal by sectors reflects a substantial share of total freshwater resources. Creating potential domino impacts on sustainability and competition between users. This indicator is also known as water withdrawal intensity. Data follows the UN specification for this indicator. This indicator has not been identified in collaboration with topic experts. |
| Data last updated | 04 May 2023 |
| Metadata last updated | 04 May 2023 |