Watch A Thirsty World

A Thirsty World is a documentary film from 2012 that takes a deep dive into the global water crisis that is affecting millions of people around the world. Led by Catarina de Albuquerque, a human rights lawyer of Portuguese origin who specializes in water and sanitation, and Vandana Shiva, a renowned environmental activist, the film explores the causes and consequences of water scarcity in different regions of the world.

Through stunning visuals and interviews with experts and ordinary people alike, A Thirsty World presents a sobering picture of the current state of our planet's water resources. The film shows how water scarcity is not only a problem of quantity but also of quality, as many communities lack access to clean drinking water and sanitation facilities. This leads to a range of health issues, from diarrhea to cholera, which disproportionately affect women and children.

One of the film's key messages is that the water crisis is not a natural disaster but rather the result of human activities, such as climate change, pollution, and over-extraction of groundwater. A Thirsty World shows how these activities have led to the depletion of water sources in many parts of the world and how they exacerbate the impacts of droughts and floods.

The film also highlights the challenges faced by farmers and rural communities in accessing water for irrigation and livestock. In India, for instance, Vandana Shiva explains how the Green Revolution, which promoted the use of high-yielding crop varieties and chemical fertilizers, has contributed to the depletion of groundwater and made farmers dependent on expensive inputs. She argues for the need to shift towards sustainable agriculture practices that prioritize local water sources, traditional knowledge, and biodiversity.

A Thirsty World does not shy away from showing the role of multinational corporations and governments in exacerbating the water crisis. The film exposes how large-scale dams, mining operations, and bottled water companies have led to the displacement of communities and the privatization of water resources. At the same time, the film also presents examples of grassroots movements and community-led initiatives that are fighting back against such injustices.

The film ends on a hopeful note, highlighting some of the innovative solutions that are emerging in different parts of the world. These include rainwater harvesting systems, fog nets, and low-cost filtration technologies that can provide clean water to communities in need. A Thirsty World also emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift towards a more equitable and sustainable water management system that recognizes water as a human right and a commons.

Overall, A Thirsty World is a compelling and informative documentary that exposes the many facets of the global water crisis and invites viewers to take action towards a more just and sustainable future. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in environmental justice, human rights, and the state of our planet's most essential resource.