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The Summer a Global Water Crisis Arrived

Aug 30, 2026 · 16m

Summary

Host Luke Vargas and reporter Ed Ballard examine the escalating global water crisis, highlighting severe droughts in the US West and Europe. They discuss the Colorado River’s critical shortages, the economic impact on industries like shipping and energy, and the return of El Niño. The episode explores solutions such as precision irrigation, leak detection, and desalination, while addressing the significant funding gaps and political challenges in upgrading water infrastructure.

Topics discussed

Sponsor message: ReliaQuest cyber defense Introduction: Global water scarcity crisis Europe's extreme heat and climate awareness Colorado River crisis and federal water cuts Impact on European rivers, industry, and El Niño Economic impacts and business responses to drought Sponsor message: Viking cruises Precision irrigation in agriculture Leak detection and industrial water recycling Desalination technology and costs Investment challenges in water infrastructure Conclusion and credits
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