As water scarcity becomes a growing concern around the world, community leaders and scientists in Colombia are leading the way in preserving water resources.

In 1990, the country ranked fourth with the greatest resources of freshwater in the world.

At the time, Colombia had more than 700,000 different water sources including rivers, lakes and swamps.

But, by 2015, that number dropped to just 24. According to a World Economic Forum study, by 2050, the country will have a water shortage that will make an economic impact.

The report says the mismanagement of Colombia’s waters, deforestation, illegal mining and climate change are the culprits.

Correspondent Michelle Begue met with some champions of nature trying to protect the water in Colombia.