HDNet World Report Season 7 Episode 49 The Big Dry: Global Warming and Australia's 2,000 Day Drought; Tagging L.A.: Art or Vandalism?; Space Shuttle Discovery

The eighth season of HDNet World Report continues with its forty-ninth episode: "The Big Dry: Global Warming and Australia's 2,000 Day Drought; Tagging L.A.: Art or Vandalism?; Space Shuttle Discovery." This episode covers a range of topics, from environmental issues to cultural controversies to one of the United States' most significant spacecraft.

The first segment, "The Big Dry: Global Warming and Australia's 2,000 Day Drought," focuses on the dire situation facing many Australians. The country is experiencing its worst drought on record, lasting over 2,000 days and causing massive agricultural and economic losses. The episode examines the factors behind the drought, including climate change and human activities, and how it is affecting Australian communities. The segment features interviews with climate experts, farmers, and government officials as they discuss potential solutions to the ongoing crisis.

The second segment, "Tagging L.A.: Art or Vandalism?," delves into the ongoing debate surrounding graffiti and street art in Los Angeles. The show explores both the artistic merit and illegality of tagging and considers its impact on communities in the city. The segment features interviews with street artists, community activists, and police officers as they provide differing perspectives on the issue and discuss ways to mitigate the negative effects of graffiti.

The final segment, "Space Shuttle Discovery," offers a closer look at the iconic spacecraft, which has played a key role in many of NASA's most significant missions. The HDNet team visits the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Florida as the shuttle prepares for its final mission before retirement. The episode includes an interview with a NASA astronaut and a behind-the-scenes look at the shuttle's preparations. It also provides historical context for Discovery and explains its numerous contributions to space exploration over the past three decades.

Overall, "The Big Dry: Global Warming and Australia's 2,000 Day Drought; Tagging L.A.: Art or Vandalism?; Space Shuttle Discovery" offers a diverse range of topics for viewers interested in global issues, city life, and space exploration. The episode provides insights from a variety of perspectives on these topics and invites viewers to engage with important debates and discussions.