Our planet is mostly covered by seas and oceans, and thus by water. Water shapes the face of the Earth and also forms the landscapes on the continents. Above all, water is the foundation of all life on Earth - without water, neither we nor any other higher life forms would exist on this planet. This is why it plays a very special role in all cultures, religions, and societies. But what exactly is this life substance, and how do we manage it? Water is used everywhere as drinking water, as the basis for food production, as a means of transport, and as an energy source. Therefore, we secure it through wells, cisterns, reservoirs, and canals, as well as through politics, borders, and even wars. This raises the question: Who actually owns the water of our planet? The richly illustrated volume offers a comprehensive overview.