Food, water and energy to economic and social are fundamental to human well-being

How are food, water and energy significant to our well-being?

For us to be healthy, live a good life, have good social relations and security and freedom of choice, a regular supply of food, water and energy is essential. Where food, water and energy are abundant, there are significant economic and social benefits relative to demand. If people have regular support, their quality of life and economic well-being will improve. Where they are scarce, this has a significant impact on well-being.

Food

Food provides us with the energy needed to work and enjoy ourselves. We measure the energy in the food we eat in calories. The number of calories an individual needs to consume depends on age, gender and the type of job you do. On average, women should aim to consume 2000 calories, men 2500, children aged 5-10 1800, girls 11-14 1850 and boys 11-14 need 2200. Although these are averages, sports people and those employed in more physically demanding jobs, such as labouring, require a higher food intake as they burn more energy.

Too much food can lead cause obesity, leading to health issues such as diabetes, strokes, cancer and heart disease. Health issues like these are more common in high-income countries (HICs). On the other hand, too little food can also harm health and well-being, including stunted growth, eye problems, diabetes and heart disease. Although not limited to low-income countries, these conditions are more common in less developed regions.

Water

Water is needed for a range of reasons. Humans need to drink water to survive. Water is also required for washing and disposing of waste in industry and manufacturing. The average person in the UK uses 150 litres of water a day. Only 4% of this is used for drinking. In the UK, 75% of water is used by industry.

Energy

Energy is used in many ways. For example, it heats our homes, manufactures goods, processes food and power transport. Energy use varies depending on where people live and how wealthy (rich) they are. In the past, energy has come from burning wood and fossil fuels such as oil and coal. Fossil fuel is a natural fuel, such as coal or gas, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms. Nowadays, more energy comes from renewable energy, such as solar and wind power. Renewable energy often referred to as clean energy, comes from natural sources or processes that are constantly replenished.

Renewable energy sources – Wind energy (wind turbines), solar energy (solar panels), biomass (tree trunks), and hydropower (dam for hydroelectric power)

Pressure on the supply of resources will increase as the world’s population grows. The growth rate can cause significant problems as the supply of resources will become increasingly challenging to meet demand. One of the most critical issues is the unequal distribution and consumption of resources.