Vízigényes

Vízigényes is a Hungarian adjective meaning "requiring a lot of water" or "water-demanding." It is used to describe organisms, plants, soils, processes, or systems that need substantial water inputs to grow, operate, or function. In ecology, agriculture, horticulture, and environmental management, the term helps classify items by their relative water needs.

Common usage occurs with nouns such as vízigényes növények (water-demanding plants), vízigényes talaj (soil with high moisture requirements), or vízigényes gyártási folyamat (production process with high water consumption). The concept is particularly relevant in irrigation planning, crop selection, and climate adaptation, where water availability and sustainability are important considerations. It is often contrasted with terms that indicate lower water use, such as water-saving or water-efficient practices.

Etymology and nuance: the word is formed from víz (water) and igényes (demanding). In neutral technical contexts, vízigényes simply describes a factual characteristic. In discussions about sustainability or resource management, it may carry evaluative overtones, signaling potential challenges related to water supply, conservation, and environmental impact.

Related concepts include vízfelhasználás (water use or consumption), víztakarékos megoldások (water-saving solutions), and vízgazdálkodás (water management). While the term is most common in Hungarian scientific and agricultural discourse, it can also appear in policy, urban planning, and consumer contexts where water demand is a relevant consideration.