
World Without Water: Six Solutions to a Shortage
The World Bank is planning to devote up to $5 billion a year to try to fix the problem of water, a vital resource that has long been poorly managed or taken for granted. The search for solutions to uneven and inadequate water supply has already led to improvements in irrigation, desalination, and wastewater recycling, and is spurring development of innovative technologies such as waterless fracking in the energy industry and more water-saving devices at home. But the scale of the problem remains vast.
Fears of a Bright Planet
Shiny things absorb less heat when left in the sun; this means that if the Earth could be made a little shinier it would be less susceptible to global warming. Ways to brighten it are the province of “geoengineering.” The small band of scientists which has been studying this subject are now proposing outdoor experiments—using seawater-fed sprayers to churn out particles of the exact size needed to brighten clouds, or spewing sulphur particles from underneath a large balloon 20km up in the sky.
Combating Food Waste by Feeding the Planet
The issue of hunger in communities across America affects us all, and thanks to Bill Emerson and his legislation we can do something about it. So take a look through your fridge, and explore the idea of donating food. If you own a restaurant or grocery store look into sending excess products to local non-profit organizations. You may not only be saving the planet, but may also save a life.
Traditional Foods Make a Comeback
While the world’s food systems have lost 75% of their biodiversity in the past 100 years, scientists are starting to recognize the treasure trove of genetic diversity present in traditional and wild plant varieties. Biodiversity can lead to more nutritious diets, and is also a key asset for mitigating the risks presented by climate change, according to the FAO. Social entrepreneurs have begun to revive many traditional foods using new marketing techniques.
