The researchers looked at how much water is needed to produce animal products in different parts of China and how the trading of these products moves virtual water between provinces. They found that producing animal meat uses the most water. Different regions have different water footprints for their animal products due to the local climate and economic status. Water-scarce Northern regions provide water-heavy animal products to water-rich Southern regions. This trading moves lots of virtual water, which worsens water shortages in the North and widens the economic gap between regions. To improve the situation, suggestions include using water more efficiently for animal production, changing industries to use less water but make more money, and managing both physical and virtual water together.