Which factor is likely to increase water demand in a community?

The factor that is likely to increase water demand in a community is a rise in industrial activities. When industrial operations expand, they typically require significant volumes of water for processes such as cooling, manufacturing, and cleaning. Industries like food processing, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals are particularly water-intensive. This increased water usage can lead to a higher overall demand in the community, as industries often contribute a substantial portion to local water consumption.

In contrast, a decreasing population size generally leads to reduced water demand since fewer people are using water. Lower climate temperatures may also result in decreased demand, as cooler weather can reduce the need for water for irrigation and other outdoor uses. Additionally, improving water conservation measures aims to reduce overall water consumption, leading to lower demand rather than an increase.