One interesting experience I had was going to the Middle East. It was the first time I'd ever dealt with water restrictions or even considered my water consumption, which didn't just baffle the Jordanians but also a lot of the other Americans.
I'm from Michigan. Fresh water is so accessible that even restricting its use for environmental purposes just isn't a thing. If we ever run out, the world is already on fire.
That's just wild to me. Even if our infrastructure collapsed tomorrow, we could all probably get our water needs met. I live within walking distance to a sizeable river - I'd be annoyed if I couldn't buy water anymore but that's about it.
Back of napkin math suggests that the water in the lake would sustain drinking, hygiene, and daily bathing for all current MI residents for over 10,000 years, so probably fine.
I wasn't thinking so much about the quantity as the anarchic crowds that'd be competing for access to it (and churning up mud, etc...) if it no longer comes through the pipes. I'm not so sure things would be "fine".
You and I may, but I’m skeptical that “we could all” do so. Even a hacked together sand/charcoal filter only goes so far when we’re talking about populations.
I'm from Michigan. Fresh water is so accessible that even restricting its use for environmental purposes just isn't a thing. If we ever run out, the world is already on fire.