Adapting to Droughts

Water supplies are being drastically reduced and are suddenly not reliable. Millions of human beings have no regular water supply, and thousands—most of them children—die every day. The western parts of North America as well as huge areas of Asia, Australia, Africa, and parts of southern Europe are all especially prone to drought. This problem has plagued human communities since the beginning of history. But scientists say human activities—mostly the burning of fossil fuels that release carbon dioxide and other gases into the atmosphere—have caused climate changes that make droughts more likely, more severe, and more frequent. This book explores the cutting-edge research and innovative projects, and simple, everyday water conservation measures available to all.