Economist Podcasts Stymie a river: the American West dries up
Aug 18, 2021
Erin Braun, The Economist's Mountain West correspondent, shares insights on the alarming water shortage in the Colorado River, affecting 40 million people and necessitating drastic policy changes. Anshul Pfeffer, the Economist's Israel correspondent, discusses the controversial Pegasus spyware scandal, revealing its impact on privacy and global surveillance norms. The podcast also spotlights the rising popularity of iru, a traditional Nigerian seasoning, illustrating how local flavors can become international favorites. A captivating blend of environmental and tech issues!
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Bathtub Ring
- Lake Mead, America's largest reservoir, has a striking 'bathtub ring'.
- This 150-foot white strip reveals the drastic drop in water levels.
Shortage Implications
- The declared water shortage will lead to water cuts for Nevada, Arizona, and Mexico.
- Arizona farmers will face the most severe cuts due to existing laws and Nevada's conservation efforts.
Declining Water Levels
- The Colorado River's flow has decreased by 20%, with climate change playing a significant role.
- Past overestimations of the river's capacity have worsened the issue.