The Stream, September 23: Nine Mines Threaten Water in Queensland, Report Says

Water Scarcity
Nine new coal mines could significantly draw down surface and groundwater supplies in Queensland, Australia, using 50 to 70 billion liters of water each year, according to a new report from anti-mining group Lock the Gate, the Guardian reported. Queensland politicians say the mines, which could double Australia’s coal exports, will need to adhere to strict environmental regulations.

Communities in East Africa are turning to simple “sand dams” to store water from seasonal rivers and improve irrigation, the Christian Science Monitor reported. The dams consist of concrete barriers that trap river sand, which stores water for longer periods of time and can be used to funnel water into supply pipes.

Asia
At least 47 people have died in floods and landslides caused by typhoon Usagi, which hit the Philippines and China this weekend, the Guardian reported. Annual monsoon rains are now complicating relief efforts and creating more landslides in the Philippines.

The Chinese government is often using climate change as a scapegoat for its water scarcity problems, according to this report by Reuters. Though climate change is playing a role in reducing water supplies, population growth and mega-infrastructure projects are also contributing to the problem.

The Stream is a daily digest spotting global water trends. To get more water news, follow Circle of Blue on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Codi Kozacek

A news correspondent for Circle of Blue based out of Hawaii. She writes The Stream, Circle of Blue’s daily digest of international water news trends. Her interests include food security, ecology and the Great Lakes.
Contact Codi Kozacek