It is also a very practical fear. As we embark on an expedition that includes biking in the Taklamakan Desert , the sixth-largest in the world, we don't know if we will be able to find enough water. Fresh water for people, animals and plants is declining all over the world. Changing weather patterns is one reason. As greenhouse gases get trapped in our atmosphere the air temperature increases.
Warmer temperatures change weather patterns by bringing drought to some areas, and floods to others.
Huge rainstorms cause drainpipes and gutters to overflow, pipes to burst, and rivers to crash over their banks. When this happens, water runs all over the place and fills up with sewage and human and animal waste. Another reason why fresh water is disappearing so quickly is pollution produced by humans. You see, even when big storms avoid us water can become contaminated. Cars, factories, and even lawnmowers pump out gobs of dirty air, which mixes with clouds.