Top 10 Countries with Freshwater Resources 2023

Water is one of the most precious resources on Earth, and access to freshwater is essential for human survival and development. While some countries struggle with water scarcity, others are blessed with abundant freshwater resources. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Top 10 Countries with Freshwater Resources in the world, based on cubic kilometers of freshwater.

At the top of the list is Brazil, with an impressive 8,233 cubic kilometers of freshwater. This South American nation boasts many large rivers, including the Amazon, the world’s largest river by volume. Coming in second place is Russia, with 4,508 cubic kilometers of freshwater. Russia’s vast size and numerous lakes and rivers make it a water-rich country.

The United States of America takes third place, with 3,069 cubic kilometers of freshwater. The country is home to the Great Lakes, the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world, as well as many major rivers. Canada is close behind in fourth place, with 2,902 cubic kilometers of freshwater. This country is known for its abundance of lakes and rivers, including the famous Canadian Shield, a region of exposed rock dotted with lakes and forests.

China, with 2,840 cubic kilometers of freshwater, ranks fifth on the list. The country’s numerous rivers and lakes, including the Yangtze River and Lake Poyang, provide water for millions of people. Colombia takes sixth place, with 2,132 cubic kilometers of freshwater. This South American nation is home to the Amazon Rainforest and many major rivers, including the Magdalena and the Cauca.

The European Union as a whole ranks seventh, with 2,057 cubic kilometers of freshwater. This includes countries such as Sweden, Finland, and Norway, which have large amounts of freshwater due to their high latitudes and cold climates. Indonesia ranks eighth, with 2,019 cubic kilometers of freshwater. The country’s many islands and diverse landscapes give rise to numerous rivers and lakes.

Peru takes ninth place, with 1,913 cubic kilometers of freshwater. The country is home to the Amazon River basin and many other rivers and lakes. Finally, India rounds out the top 10 with 1,911 cubic kilometers of freshwater. The country’s large rivers, including the Ganges and the Brahmaputra, are essential sources of water for agriculture and human consumption.

In this article, we’ll explore each of these countries in more detail, looking at the sources of their freshwater resources, their water management policies, and the challenges they face in preserving their water supplies.

Latest update: July 04, 2023

Table of Contents

Summary of Top 10 Countries with Freshwater Resources 2023

Country	Area (sq km)	Freshwater Resources (Cubic Kilometres)	Brief Description
Brazil	8,515,767	8,233	Brazil is home to approximately 12% of the world's freshwater resources. Its vast Amazon River basin alone contains around 20% of the world's freshwater.
Russia	17,098,242	4,508	Russia's freshwater resources are distributed throughout its vast territory. The country's numerous rivers and lakes, including Lake Baikal, provide abundant freshwater resources.
USA	9,826,630	3,069	The United States is home to several major rivers, including the Mississippi, the Colorado, and the Columbia. These rivers, along with the country's numerous lakes, provide significant freshwater resources.
Canada	9,984,670	2,902	Canada's freshwater resources are mainly concentrated in its numerous lakes and rivers, including the Great Lakes. The country's vast size and relatively low population density help ensure that these resources remain relatively pristine.
China	9,596,961	2,840	China's freshwater resources are mainly concentrated in its numerous rivers, including the Yangtze and the Yellow River. Rapid industrialization and urbanization have placed significant pressure on these resources in recent years.
Colombia	1,141,748	2,132	Colombia's freshwater resources are distributed throughout its many rivers and lakes, including the Magdalena River, the country's largest.
EU	4,476,235	2,057	The European Union's freshwater resources are distributed throughout its many member states. The EU's numerous rivers, including the Danube and the Rhine, provide significant freshwater resources.
Indonesia	1,904,569	2,019	Indonesia's freshwater resources are mainly concentrated in its many rivers and lakes. The country's large population and rapidly expanding economy have placed significant pressure on these resources in recent years.
Peru	1,285,216	1,913	Peru's freshwater resources are distributed throughout its many rivers and lakes, including Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake.
India	3,287,263	1,911	India's freshwater resources are mainly concentrated in its many rivers, including the Ganges and the Brahmaputra. The country's rapidly growing population and expanding economy have placed significant pressure on these resources in recent years.

1. Brazil Freshwater (Cubic Kilometre): 8,233 | A Precious Natural Treasure

Brazil is a country known for its vast and diverse natural landscapes, from the Amazon rainforest to the beaches of Rio de Janeiro. But did you know that Brazil is also one of the richest countries in terms of freshwater resources? With a total of 8,233 cubic kilometers of freshwater, Brazil ranks first in the world for freshwater resources. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Brazil’s freshwater resources, their importance for the country’s economy and society, and the challenges Brazil faces in managing and preserving them.

Sources of Brazil’s Freshwater Resources

Brazil’s freshwater resources are mainly derived from its numerous rivers, which are fed by rainfall and snowmelt from the Andes mountains and the Brazilian Highlands. The Amazon River, which is the world’s largest river by volume, accounts for the majority of Brazil’s freshwater resources. The Amazon River basin covers over 60% of Brazil’s territory and is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal species.

Importance of Brazil’s Freshwater Resources

Brazil’s freshwater resources play a crucial role in the country’s economy and society. They are essential for agriculture, which is one of Brazil’s main industries. Brazil is a major exporter of soybeans, coffee, beef, and other agricultural products, and freshwater is necessary for irrigating crops and feeding livestock. Freshwater resources are also important for generating hydroelectric power, which accounts for over 60% of Brazil’s electricity production. In addition, freshwater resources provide drinking water for millions of Brazilians and support a variety of aquatic ecosystems, including fisheries and wetlands.

Challenges in Managing and Preserving Brazil’s Freshwater Resources

Despite their importance, Brazil’s freshwater resources are facing numerous challenges. One of the main challenges is water pollution, which is caused by industrial, agricultural, and urban activities. In addition, deforestation and land use changes are affecting the water cycle and reducing the amount of water available in some regions. Climate change is also exacerbating the problem, with more frequent and severe droughts and floods affecting water availability and quality. Finally, poor water management practices, such as over-extraction and inefficient use, are further straining Brazil’s freshwater resources.

Brazil’s freshwater resources are a precious natural treasure that are essential for the country’s economy and society. While Brazil has abundant freshwater resources, they are not unlimited and must be managed and preserved carefully to ensure their sustainability. By adopting sustainable practices, such as reducing pollution, protecting ecosystems, and improving water management, Brazil can continue to enjoy the benefits of its freshwater resources for generations to come.

2. Russia Freshwater (Cubic Kilometre): 4,508

Russia is the largest country in the world, spanning over two continents and covering a vast area of 17.1 million square kilometers. With such a massive land area, Russia also has abundant freshwater resources, ranking second in the world with 4,508 cubic kilometers of freshwater. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of Russia’s freshwater resources, the challenges they face, and how Russia is managing and preserving them.

Sources of Russia’s Freshwater Resources

Russia’s freshwater resources are mainly derived from its many rivers and lakes, which cover over 3 million square kilometers of its territory. The Volga River is the largest river in Russia and provides a significant portion of its freshwater resources. In addition, Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest lake, contains about 20% of the world’s freshwater and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Importance of Russia’s Freshwater Resources

Russia’s freshwater resources are essential for its economy and society. They are used for various purposes, including agriculture, energy production, and drinking water. Agriculture is a major industry in Russia, with wheat, barley, and other crops being grown extensively in the fertile regions of the country. Freshwater is also used for generating hydroelectric power, which accounts for about 20% of Russia’s electricity production. Finally, freshwater resources are important for supporting aquatic ecosystems, which provide fish and other resources.

Challenges in Managing and Preserving Russia’s Freshwater Resources

Despite their abundance, Russia’s freshwater resources are facing significant challenges. One of the main challenges is water pollution, which is caused by industrial, agricultural, and urban activities. In addition, climate change is affecting the water cycle, with more frequent droughts and floods affecting water availability and quality. Finally, poor water management practices, such as over-extraction and inefficient use, are further straining Russia’s freshwater resources.

Managing and Preserving Russia’s Freshwater Resources

Russia is taking steps to manage and preserve its freshwater resources. The government has implemented laws and regulations to protect water quality and ecosystems. Russia is also investing in improving water management infrastructure, such as dams and water treatment facilities. In addition, the government is promoting water conservation and efficiency measures to reduce water waste and increase the efficiency of water use.

Russia’s freshwater resources are a vital natural asset that is essential for the country’s economy and society. While they face significant challenges, Russia is taking steps to manage and preserve them. By adopting sustainable practices, such as reducing pollution, protecting ecosystems, and improving water management, Russia can continue to enjoy the benefits of its freshwater resources for generations to come.

3. United States of America Freshwater (Cubic Kilometre): 3,069 | A Closer Look

Water is an essential resource for human survival, and fresh water is particularly important as it accounts for only 2.5% of the world’s total water resources. The United States of America (USA) is one of the countries with the largest freshwater reserves, ranking third globally with a total of 3,069 cubic kilometers of freshwater resources.

The USA has a diverse range of freshwater resources, including rivers, lakes, and underground aquifers. The country’s largest freshwater source is the Great Lakes, which contain about 84% of North America’s surface freshwater. The USA also has several major rivers, including the Mississippi, Colorado, and Columbia rivers, which are crucial sources of water for agriculture, energy production, and municipal use.

However, the USA’s freshwater resources face significant challenges, including pollution and overuse. Agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and urban development have all contributed to water pollution, affecting both the quality and quantity of freshwater resources. The depletion of underground aquifers due to overuse is also a growing concern, particularly in the arid western region of the country.

To address these challenges, the USA has implemented several water management and conservation strategies. The Clean Water Act of 1972 and the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 are federal laws aimed at protecting the quality of the country’s freshwater resources. Additionally, the USA has invested in the development of water-efficient technologies and conservation measures, such as drip irrigation and water recycling.

Despite these efforts, the USA’s freshwater resources remain under threat, and more action is needed to ensure their sustainability. The country’s water management policies must prioritize the protection and conservation of freshwater resources to ensure their availability for future generations.

In conclusion, the United States of America is one of the countries with the largest freshwater reserves, but its freshwater resources face significant challenges. Water management and conservation strategies must be implemented to protect and ensure the sustainability of these vital resources.

4. Canada Freshwater (Cubic Kilometre): 2,902 | An Overview

Canada is one of the world’s most water-rich countries, with vast freshwater resources that account for approximately 7% of the world’s total. The country has an estimated 2,902 cubic kilometers of freshwater, ranking fourth globally. These freshwater resources are a vital source of life, supporting diverse ecosystems, human communities, and economic activities.

Canada’s freshwater resources are primarily sourced from its rivers, lakes, and groundwater aquifers. The country has more than 2 million lakes, including the Great Lakes, which are the largest freshwater system in the world by surface area. Canada also has several major rivers, including the St. Lawrence, Mackenzie, and Columbia, which provide essential water resources for agriculture, industry, and municipal use.

Despite the abundance of freshwater resources, Canada’s water security faces several challenges, including pollution and climate change. Industrial activities, agricultural runoff, and urbanization have all contributed to water pollution, affecting both the quality and quantity of freshwater resources. Climate change is also a growing concern, as it is altering precipitation patterns and causing more frequent and severe droughts and floods.

To address these challenges, Canada has implemented several water management and conservation strategies. The Canadian Environmental Protection Act of 1999 and the Fisheries Act of 1985 are federal laws aimed at protecting the quality of the country’s freshwater resources. The country has also invested in the development of water-efficient technologies and conservation measures, such as low-flow toilets and rainwater harvesting.

Canada’s freshwater resources are a critical asset that must be protected and managed sustainably. The country’s water management policies must prioritize the conservation and protection of these vital resources to ensure their availability for future generations.

In conclusion, Canada is one of the world’s most water-rich countries, with vast freshwater resources that support diverse ecosystems, human communities, and economic activities. However, these resources face significant challenges, including pollution and climate change. Canada must continue to implement water management and conservation strategies to ensure the sustainability of its freshwater resources.

5. China Freshwater (Cubic Kilometre): 2,840 | A Precious but Vulnerable Asset

China is home to approximately 20% of the world’s population, but only 7% of the world’s freshwater resources. The country’s water resources are primarily sourced from its rivers, lakes, and groundwater aquifers, with an estimated 2,840 cubic kilometers of freshwater available. Despite its significant freshwater resources, China faces several water-related challenges that threaten its water security.

One of the most pressing issues facing China’s freshwater resources is water pollution. Industrial activities, urbanization, and agricultural runoff have all contributed to water pollution, affecting both the quality and quantity of freshwater resources. Inadequate wastewater treatment facilities and the illegal dumping of industrial waste have worsened the situation. Polluted water not only affects the water quality but also has a significant impact on human health, biodiversity, and the ecosystem.

Another challenge facing China’s freshwater resources is an uneven distribution. Most of the country’s freshwater resources are located in the south and east, while the north and west regions are relatively arid. This disparity in the distribution has resulted in water scarcity in some regions, leading to water rationing and social conflicts.

To address these challenges, China has implemented several water management and conservation strategies. The country has developed national standards for water quality and has invested heavily in the construction of wastewater treatment plants. It has also established water rights trading markets and implemented water pricing reforms to incentivize water conservation.

Despite these efforts, China’s freshwater resources remain a precious but vulnerable asset. Continued investments in water conservation and management, coupled with strengthened legal frameworks, public awareness, and technological innovations are needed to ensure the sustainable use and management of the country’s freshwater resources.

In conclusion, China’s freshwater resources are a precious but vulnerable asset that faces significant challenges, including water pollution and uneven distribution. While the country has implemented several strategies to address these challenges, continued investments and strengthened legal frameworks are needed to ensure the sustainability of its freshwater resources.

6. Colombia Freshwater (Cubic Kilometre): 2,132

Colombia, a South American country known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes, is also one of the top 10 countries in the world with abundant freshwater resources. With a total freshwater volume of 2,132 cubic kilometers, Colombia is ranked sixth on the list, just behind China and ahead of the European Union.

The country’s freshwater resources are mainly derived from its extensive network of rivers, with the Magdalena River being the largest and most important. Other significant rivers include the Cauca, Caquetá, and Putumayo. In addition to rivers, Colombia’s freshwater resources also come from its numerous lagoons, wetlands, and groundwater sources.

The abundance of freshwater in Colombia not only supports the country’s diverse ecosystems but also sustains its agricultural sector, which is a crucial part of its economy. Agriculture accounts for about 6% of Colombia’s GDP and employs over 16% of its population, making it a vital source of income for many Colombians.

However, despite the country’s significant freshwater resources, Colombia is not immune to water-related challenges. Rapid population growth, industrialization, and urbanization have put a strain on the country’s water resources, leading to issues such as water scarcity, pollution, and inadequate access to safe drinking water in some areas.

To address these challenges, the Colombian government has implemented various policies and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable water management practices and protecting its freshwater resources. These include increasing investments in water infrastructure, promoting water conservation and efficiency measures, and implementing regulations to prevent water pollution.

Overall, Colombia’s abundant freshwater resources play a vital role in sustaining its economy, environment, and people. With continued efforts to promote sustainable water management practices, the country can ensure that its freshwater resources remain healthy and accessible for generations to come.

7. European Union Freshwater (Cubic Kilometre): 2,057

The European Union (EU) is home to some of the most beautiful and iconic bodies of water in the world, including the Danube, Rhine, and Volga rivers. But did you know that the EU also boasts significant freshwater resources? With a total freshwater volume of 2,057 cubic kilometers, the EU ranks seventh on the list of top countries with freshwater resources.

The EU’s freshwater resources are spread across its 27 member states, with the largest reserves found in Sweden, Finland, and Norway. These three countries alone account for almost half of the EU’s freshwater volume. The EU’s other member states, including Germany, France, and Spain, also contribute significantly to the region’s freshwater resources.

The EU’s freshwater resources are not only important for the region’s ecosystem and biodiversity, but they also play a crucial role in supporting various industries such as agriculture, tourism, and transportation. The EU has implemented various policies and regulations to ensure the sustainable use of its freshwater resources, including the EU Water Framework Directive, which aims to protect and improve the quality of the region’s freshwater bodies.

Despite its abundant freshwater resources, the EU faces several challenges, including water pollution, water scarcity, and climate change. The region has experienced severe droughts in recent years, which have led to water shortages and the depletion of groundwater resources. The EU is working towards addressing these challenges and ensuring the sustainable management of its freshwater resources for future generations.

In conclusion, the European Union’s freshwater resources are an essential part of the region’s natural heritage and economy. While the EU faces various challenges in managing its freshwater resources sustainably, it continues to prioritize its protection and improvement through policies and regulations.

8. Indonesia Freshwater (Cubic Kilometre): 2,019

Indonesia is a country located in Southeast Asia, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and rich biodiversity. But did you know that Indonesia is also one of the top 10 countries with the highest freshwater resources in the world? With a total freshwater volume of 2,019 cubic kilometers, Indonesia is blessed with a plentiful supply of water that supports its growing population and various economic activities.

Indonesia’s freshwater resources are primarily derived from its numerous rivers, lakes, and groundwater reserves. The country has more than 5,000 rivers, with the longest one being the Kapuas River in West Kalimantan. Lakes also play a crucial role in Indonesia’s freshwater ecosystem, with Lake Toba in North Sumatra being the largest volcanic lake in the world. Moreover, Indonesia’s groundwater reserves are found throughout the archipelago, providing a vital source of water for agriculture, industry, and domestic use.

The abundance of freshwater resources in Indonesia plays a crucial role in supporting the country’s economy. The agricultural sector, for instance, is heavily reliant on water resources for irrigation, with rice being the staple food of the majority of the population. Indonesia is also one of the world’s leading producers of palm oil, rubber, and cocoa, which require large amounts of water for their cultivation. The manufacturing sector, on the other hand, utilizes water as a key input in various industrial processes.

Despite Indonesia’s ample freshwater resources, the country still faces several challenges related to water management. The increasing demand for water due to population growth and economic development has put pressure on the country’s water supply, leading to issues such as water scarcity, pollution, and degradation of freshwater ecosystems. Additionally, the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events and rising sea levels, threaten to exacerbate these challenges further.

To address these challenges, the Indonesian government has implemented various policies and programs aimed at promoting sustainable water management practices. These include measures to improve irrigation systems, protect water sources, and enhance water quality. The government has also promoted public awareness campaigns and community-based initiatives to encourage individuals to conserve water and protect freshwater ecosystems.

In conclusion, Indonesia’s freshwater resources are a valuable asset that supports the country’s economy and sustains its people’s livelihoods. However, the country faces significant challenges related to water management, which require ongoing efforts to ensure the sustainability and resilience of its water resources for future generations.

9. Peru Freshwater (Cubic Kilometre): 1,913

Peru is one of the countries in South America that boasts a vast reserve of freshwater resources. The country’s freshwater reserves stand at 1,913 cubic kilometers, making it the ninth country in the world with the largest freshwater resources. These resources are found in the Amazon River basin, which covers most of the country and serves as the primary source of freshwater.

The Amazon River is one of the world’s largest rivers, with a length of approximately 6,400 kilometers, of which about 60% is in Peru. The river runs through several countries, including Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It serves as the primary source of fresh water for millions of people living in the Amazon River basin. The river is also home to various fish species, including the piranha, which has gained notoriety for its sharp teeth and aggressive behavior.

Peru’s freshwater resources are also vital for the country’s agricultural sector, which is a significant contributor to the country’s economy. The fertile soils in the Amazon River basin provide ideal conditions for farming, which supports the growth of crops such as coffee, cocoa, and bananas. The river’s tributaries also provide irrigation water for crops grown in arid regions of the country.

However, Peru’s freshwater resources face several challenges, including pollution from mining activities, agricultural runoff, and untreated wastewater. These issues threaten the quality of freshwater, which could have adverse effects on the environment and human health.

To address these challenges, the Peruvian government has implemented various policies aimed at protecting freshwater resources. These policies include regulating mining activities to reduce pollution and investing in wastewater treatment infrastructure. The government also promotes sustainable farming practices to reduce agricultural runoff and preserve the quality of freshwater resources.

In conclusion, Peru is a country with vast freshwater resources, primarily found in the Amazon River basin. These resources are crucial for the country’s economy, agricultural sector, and the millions of people who depend on the Amazon River for their daily water needs. However, challenges such as pollution and untreated wastewater threaten the quality of freshwater, necessitating the government’s intervention to safeguard these resources for future generations.

10. India Freshwater (Cubic Kilometre): 1,911

India is the seventh-largest country in the world by land area, and it has a large population of over 1.3 billion people. With a growing population, India’s freshwater resources are under increasing pressure. Despite this, India is still home to some of the world’s largest freshwater sources, including the Ganges and Brahmaputra river systems.

The total amount of freshwater available in India is estimated to be around 1,911 cubic kilometers, which ranks it as the 10th country with the highest freshwater resources. However, while India has significant freshwater resources, it is also facing numerous challenges when it comes to managing them effectively.

One of the biggest challenges facing India’s freshwater resources is pollution. The rapid pace of industrialization and urbanization in the country has led to increased pollution of rivers, lakes, and groundwater resources. This has not only made it more difficult for people to access safe and clean water but has also had a negative impact on the environment.

Another major challenge facing India’s freshwater resources is climate change. As global temperatures rise, it is expected that India will experience more frequent and severe droughts, which could further strain the country’s already limited water resources.

Despite these challenges, there are efforts underway in India to better manage and conserve freshwater resources. For example, the government has launched several initiatives to improve water quality and increase access to safe drinking water. Additionally, there are numerous non-governmental organizations working to promote sustainable water management practices and increase awareness about the importance of preserving India’s freshwater resources.

In conclusion, while India may not have the largest freshwater resources in the world, it still has a significant amount of water available. However, given the numerous challenges facing the country, it is important that efforts continue to be made to protect and conserve these valuable resources for future generations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, water is a vital resource for human survival and economic development. The distribution of freshwater resources around the world is not uniform, with some countries being relatively water-rich while others are facing water scarcity. The top 10 countries with freshwater resources are Brazil, Russia, the United States of America, Canada, China, Colombia, the European Union, Indonesia, Peru, and India, with each country having its unique water management challenges.

It is crucial to acknowledge the importance of sustainable water management practices to ensure that future generations have access to this essential resource. Governments, businesses, and individuals must work together to promote water conservation, implement efficient irrigation systems, and reduce water pollution.

Pakistan, it is a water-stressed country with a high level of water scarcity. The country needs to focus on improving its water management strategies, increasing water storage capacity, promoting water conservation, and investing in infrastructure to reduce water wastage.

Overall, the issue of water scarcity and management is a global challenge that requires collective efforts to ensure the availability of water resources for all.

FAQ | Top 10 Countries with Freshwater Resources 2023

Which country is 2nd richest in water?

According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, Brazil has the second-largest water resource in the world, after Russia.