The Stream, August 5: Study Models Himalayan Glacier Retreat and Water Supply

The Himalayan glaciers that feed the Indus and Ganges rivers have the potential to lose half their volume by 2100 due to climate change, according to a new study published in Nature Geoscience, AFP reported. The ice loss, however, is not expected to reduce water availability for South Asia in the current century.

United Kingdom water users are paying low rates at the expense of rivers and streams, which are being depleted by water companies, BBC News reported. The report points to an outdated water licensing system as a major obstacle to responsible water withdrawals.

WASH
The United States Congress is considering a bill to further improve access to safe water and sanitation around the globe, building upon a similar act passed in 2005, WASH Advocates reported. The Water for the World Act, as the bill is known, would step up monitoring and evaluations of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) projects.

A new study has linked children’s growth to their access to clean water and soap, according to Medical News Today. An analysis of studies conducted in low and middle-income countries found that height growth for children under the age of five increased 0.5 centimeters (0.2 inches) when water and sanitation access was improved.

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