From higher morbidity and mortality rates to reduced economic growth, the impact of sand and dust storms can be major, especially for lower-income nations and vulnerable communities. However, with stronger collaboration and improved information-sharing, much of the risk could be managed and mitigated.
Reuters
Severe drought across much of Afghanistan is spurring plans to build new dams while also aggravating tensions with Iran over supplies from the Helmand river - a decades-old dispute that has fed accusations that Tehran is helping the Taliban insurgency. Dispute resolution has been fruitless thus far considering the security issues and stress facing both countries.
QUT
A new floating device that goes with the flow of rivers to deliver real-time water quality and velocity data is set to be the next defence against flash floods, polluting run-off, and algal blooms. This device provides real-time information about water quality and flow, a new feat in flood risk management.
