A new report highlights the alarming loss of freshwater from Earth's continents, amounting to enough water annually to meet the needs of 280 million people, primarily caused by groundwater extraction and climate change. It emphasizes the importance of improved water management, efficient agricultural practices, and global water trade to combat this crisis and ensure sustainable water use worldwide.
Farmers in Hungary's Great Hungarian Plain are combating desertification by using thermal spa overflow water to artificially flood land, aiming to raise groundwater levels and create microclimates to mitigate drought effects and promote vegetation growth amid increasing climate challenges.
Starting January 1, 2026, Maui's Department of Water Supply will adopt a new water demand and meter sizing method based on daily water usage per household, replacing the old fixture-based system, to improve water resource management and planning.
The article discusses how the myth of 'aqua nullius'—the idea that water belongs to no one—perpetuates colonial injustices in Australia's groundwater management, ignoring Indigenous knowledge and rights. It emphasizes the importance of integrating Indigenous perspectives and traditional practices into water governance to ensure sustainable and culturally respectful management of groundwater resources, especially as climate change and industrial pressures increase.
Iran is experiencing an unprecedented drought with half the country not receiving rain since summer, leading to water rationing, infrastructure issues, and concerns over sustainable water management amid climate change and overuse, especially in agriculture. Experts suggest urgent measures like prioritizing urban water supply and improving irrigation, but political and institutional challenges remain.
The Willcox Basin in Arizona is experiencing rapid land sinking due to excessive groundwater pumping for agriculture, with some areas sinking up to six inches annually, causing fissures, dry wells, and flooding; efforts like declaring Active Management Areas aim to slow this process, but permanent subsidence remains a significant challenge.
The famous Eisbach river wave in Munich, known as the birthplace of freshwater surfing, has mysteriously disappeared after a recent cleanup, leaving surfers puzzled. Authorities are investigating the cause and plan to divert more water to restore the wave, which is a major tourist and sporting attraction. The wave's disappearance highlights the delicate balance required for standing waves and the impact of maintenance activities.
A small town in South Texas, Mathis, is facing a severe water shortage due to prolonged drought and declining lake levels, prompting emergency measures such as drilling new wells and considering desalination and wastewater reuse to secure its water supply amid broader climate change impacts.
The article criticizes Donald Trump for making uninformed and reckless decisions, exemplified by his false claims about water from Canada flowing to California and his general lack of understanding of complex issues, which has led to dangerous situations and misguided policies.
The Colorado River faces severe drought conditions with declining reservoir levels, prompting urgent negotiations among seven U.S. states and Mexico over water sharing. Federal officials warn of potential federal intervention if states cannot reach a consensus by November, as climate change exacerbates water shortages, threatening the river's future and the water supply for millions.
Kabul's six million residents face a severe water shortage that could lead to the city running out of water by 2030 due to drought, unregulated groundwater extraction, and lack of infrastructure, with the government unable to fund necessary solutions amidst economic challenges.
Iran is facing a severe water crisis with the potential for 'Day Zero' when water supplies could be exhausted, driven by a five-year drought, mismanagement, and increased dam construction, prompting emergency measures and international criticism.
Flooding in Central Texas has caused environmental concerns including water contamination and increased mosquito risks, prompting safety advisories and water management efforts, with reservoirs refilling and some areas under boil water notices, while officials warn of health risks from standing water and runoff.
Researchers from Mainz, Oxford, and Innsbruck used carbonate deposits to uncover the complex history of Arles' Roman aqueduct system, confirming its long-term use, multiple phases of construction and repair, and its role in supplying water to the Baths of Constantine, revealing advanced and sustainable ancient water management practices.
Athens is revitalizing Hadrian's Aqueduct, an ancient Roman water system, to address modern water shortages. This initiative aims to enhance the city's water management and sustainability efforts by integrating historical infrastructure with contemporary needs.
