State the number of countries where more than 60 % of rural households rely on water from outside the home. 

Identify the country where men and women have equal responsibility for collecting water from outside the home. 

Outline one environmental impact of increased human pressure on aquifers. 

Explain two ways in which water can be managed to provide a more sustainable future for local communities in countries such as these.

13

Afghanistan

Award [1] for a valid impact and an additional [1] for development.

Ground subsidence [1] due to all the water having been removed/over-abstraction [1].

Other impacts include:

• Pollution from agricultural chemicals / industry
• rivers/lakes drying up due to lowering of water table.

Award [1] for each way and a further [2] for development / explanation / exemplification.

For example, pipes/sewers/water filters can be built [1] in order to separate sewage and drinking water [1] thereby reducing the risk of disease for future generations [1].

Reference to sustainability is not required although it may be implied.

Other ways include, but are not limited to:

• recycling water
• tube wells
• more efficient irrigation systems
• training local people to take responsibility for repairs
• building dams provides irrigation water for local communities
• alternative energy developed.

No problems although some listed the countries in a(i) rather than giving a number.

Many were unaware of the meaning of the term aquifer and/or did not outline an environmental issue. Others wrote about why there is pressure on aquifers rather than the environmental impacts.

Good responses focused on water management in local communities, with a wide range of sustainable water management techniques used.