Levels of development are dependent on physical, economic, environmental and political factors. Globalisation has had major consequences for high-, middle- and low-income countries.

Economic, social, political and environmental factors can lead to inequalities in the UK and abroad. Some policies have tried to address the north/south divide in the UK and inequalities in LICs.

Global water supply and consumption are unequal. Water supplies need to be managed and there are strategies that can achieve this. Water sustainability is a global concern.