The passage suggests that to prevent water shortages, better conservation and allocation of water are crucial. Specifically, it highlights the need for:
1. Improved Water Conservation: This involves using water more efficiently, reducing waste, and implementing sustainable practices in agriculture, industry, and daily life. Strategies like promoting water-saving technologies, reducing water-intensive crops, and encouraging responsible consumption can help conserve freshwater resources.
2. Better Water Allocation: This refers to more equitable and efficient distribution of available water, ensuring that it is allocated where it is most needed and used responsibly. It may involve prioritizing water use for essential needs like drinking, sanitation, and food production, while also addressing conflicts over water resources between countries or regions.
These measures are vital to managing the growing demand for water and preventing severe shortages, especially in regions where water scarcity is already a significant problem.