What percentage of the Earth's water is considered drinkable?

The correct percentage of the Earth's water that is considered drinkable is indeed 1%. While freshwater constitutes only about 2.5% of the total water on Earth, a significant portion of this freshwater is trapped in glaciers and ice caps, making it inaccessible for direct human consumption. Out of the total freshwater, only about 1% is easily available for drinking, agriculture, and other uses. This small fraction is found in rivers, lakes, and accessible groundwater.

The other figures listed do not accurately reflect the tiny share of drinkable water that is available for human use, as the vast majority of the Earth's water remains saline and cannot be consumed without treatment. Understanding this statistic is crucial for water conservation and management efforts, particularly as global water demands continue to rise.