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Episode details

World Service,17 Sep 2026,49 mins

UN warns of global freshwater crisis

Outside Source

Available for 29 days

The UN is warning of a serious decline in the world’s fresh water, with rivers and lakes drying up and glaciers retreating. It says climate change is increasing the risks of both floods and drought. Our environment correspondent explains. Police in South Africa have confirmed the discovery of a ninth woman's body in just two months, amid growing concern over a string of unexplained deaths east of Johannesburg. We have the latest from our correspondent and speak to women in Johannesburg. Buckingham Palace has said allegations raised by Earl Spencer about the immediate aftermath of the death of his sister, Princess Diana, may have been coloured by grief. We speak to royal commentators. We speak to our tech experts. Why does caffeine makes some people buzz - whilst others barely notice? Our health reporter explains, and we hear messages from listeners. Presenter: James Reynolds. (Photo: Scandinavia holds the vast majority of Europe’s fresh water, held in millions of lakes that were forged by glaciers during the last ice age. Credit: Ingrid Kvale/BBC Studios)

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