The Big Thirst

Wolfenden is a biochemistry researcher specializing in water. Wolfenden mentions that water in proteins shapes our bodies.

Smyth, a geologist, researches water in rocks. Smyth says that rocks deep beneath the ocean may store large amounts of water, balancing the amounts of water in the oceans.

Mulroy has headed the Las Vegas municipal water utility for two decades. She leads initiatives to reduce and recycle water. Since starting her job, Mulroy has altered how Las Vegas gets and disposes of its water, and what residents and businesses can use water for.

Wilson directs utilities in Galveston, Texas, during Hurricane Ike. After the water systems get knocked out, he and staff drive around to repair pumps.

Flanagan, director of water and wastewater services in the Australian town of Toowoomba, introduces water recycling. The plan to build a plant for drinking water fails due to public opinion, but he does build a plant for a local mine.

Bombardier is operations manager at an IBM factory in Burlington, Vermont. She reduces water use there, saving the company millions of dollars.

Laurie Arthur is an Australian farmer. While growing rice, a water-intensive crop, the Big Dry drought prevents him from receiving a water allotment. This devastates rice crops. Arthur builds a shed for wool and works on other wheat farms to make money. Arthur thinks that rainfall will return after the drought, and spends money on infrastructure.

Mehmood Khan grew up in a small Indian village. After leaving to attend school and work, he returns to his village. Khan starts a charitable group to provide water and other service to the village.