Astrid Zweynert

July 23 (AlertNet) - Disputes over water are common around the world, exacerbated by climate change, growing populations, rapid urbanisation, increased irrigation and a rising demand for alternative energy sources such as hydroelectricity.

Robert Bowen

AP reported today that thousands of fish died just last week in the Midwestern United States because the heat wave made the rivers too hot. At the same time a leading scientist said statistical analysis confirms the blistering heat is a result of climate change.

Chris Wickham

LONDON, Aug 8 (Reuters) - The world is depleting underground water reserves faster than they can be replenished due to over-exploitation, according to scientists in Canada and the Netherlands.

This map shows the amount of freshwater available per person in the year 2007. Orange and yellow regions depict water scarcity, while blue regions denote relative water abundance.

Geoffrey Kamadi

NAIROBI, Kenya (AlertNet) – Satellite technology is coming to the aid of pastoralists in drought-stricken Kenya, with the expansion of a water monitoring system that aims to reduce livestock loss.

Megan Rowling

Water must be used more efficiently to meet rising food demand from a growing population amid climate-change pressures, experts say.

Washington Post

Karen DeYoung

Fresh-water shortages and more droughts and floods will increase the likelihood that water will be used as a weapon between states or to further terrorist aims in key strategic areas, including the Middle East, South Asia and North Africa, a U.S.

Steve Connor

Scientists studying ancient mud samples taken from the bed of the Dead Sea separating Israel and Jordan have warned that the fragile political situation in the Middle East will be made worse by the intense water shortages their study is predicting.

40% of the world will live in water-scarce regions by 2025

Deborah Zabarenko

* More food possible without water crisis, experts say

* Africa has greatest potential for improvement

By Deborah Zabarenko, Environment Correspondent