Research shows that 25 countries use 80 per cent of their water resources each year. Twenty-five countries, home to a quarter of the world's population, are facing extreme water stress, according to new research. Data from the World Resources Institute shows that these countries regularly use 80 per cent of their water resources each year. WRI's Aqueduct water risk map reveals that worldwide demand for water is increasing and has doubled since 1960. While water demand is flat in Europe and the US, it is rising rapidly in Africa. By 2050, worldwide water demand is expected to increase by 20 to 25 per cent. Among the 25 countries under the highest water stress are Saudi Arabia, Chile, San Marino, Belgium and Greece. The five countries currently facing the highest water stress are Bahrain, Cyprus, Kuwait, Lebanon and Oman.