Water is indispensable to life on earth. It dissolves and transfers oxygen, carbon dioxide and the mineral salts that are vital to living organisms. The level of precipitation, combined with the temperature, define the characteristics of terrestrial ecosystems. The total quantity on the planet is estimated to be about 1.4 thousand million cubic kilometres. Most of this (97.4 %) is salt water. In parallel, most of the fresh water exists in the form of ice or snow.
As far as irrigation is concerned, the use of irrigation control systems combined with estimates of hydric stress and relative evaporation make it possible to limit water consumption while reducing the risk of increasing soil salinity.
Water is also used in viticulture for washing sprayers and vinification equipment. Training and raising the awareness of personnel and optimising washing systems and procedures can help to limit consumption.
Methods of recycling or re-use (rainwater, cellar or spray effluents) can also be incorporated into the sustainable management of water resources.