40 million of us, about one in ten Americans, rely on this shrinking water supply. 80% of the river goes to agriculture, and so as shortage occurs, many look there first for water savings. Finding a way to live with less water isn't easy. What are we willing to give up to sacrifice in order to bring our supply and demand back into balance? That's what I'm most interested in for this series - delving into those choices.
No elemental force has done more to shape life on this planet than water, from originating the earliest forms of life, to sculpting our landscapes, to determining patterns of human civilization. Humans have tried to control water for thousands of years, and access to this precious resource has caused conflict and also unlikely partnerships. In an era defined by climate disruption, the control, access, and quality of water will continue to determine our ability to survive and thrive. How can we ensure a future where clean water exists for all who need it – including the ecosystems we depend on – and navigate the challenges of too little or too much?
Guests:
Peter Gleick, co-founder, The Pacific Institute; author, “The Three Ages of Water”
Contributor: Luke Runyon, Managing Editor & Reporter, Colorado River Basin, KUNC Radio
For show notes and related links, visit https://www.climateone.org/watch-and-listen/podcasts
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