NOVA Season 14 Episode 20 The Desert Doesn't Bloom Here Anymore

NOVA season 14 episode 20 titled "The Desert Doesn't Bloom Here Anymore" explores the issue of desertification, which is the process through which arid and semi-arid regions become increasingly dry and unusable. The episode focuses on the story of Las Vegas, a city that was built in a desert and now faces the issue of water scarcity.

The episode starts by showing how human intervention has contributed to desertification in many parts of the world. For instance, the construction of dams and irrigation systems has disrupted the natural water cycle, leading to the degradation of soil and vegetation. As a result, millions of people are at risk of losing their homes and being driven into poverty.

The episode then turns to Las Vegas, a city that has one of the fastest-growing populations in the United States. To sustain this growth, the city needs water, and lots of it. However, Las Vegas is located in a highly arid region that is prone to desertification. The episode highlights the various steps that the city has taken to address this issue.

One such step is water conservation. The episode shows how Las Vegas has implemented a range of measures, such as low-flow showerheads, desert landscaping, and so on, to reduce the amount of water it uses. The episode also explores the psychology of water conservation and how people can be motivated to change their behavior.

Another step that Las Vegas has taken is the development of new water sources. The episode shows how Las Vegas has invested in technologies such as desalination, water reuse, and rainwater harvesting to augment its water supply. The episode also highlights the role of science and research in developing these new water sources.

Finally, the episode looks at the issue of climate change and how it is exacerbating the problem of desertification. The episode shows how rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and more frequent droughts are making the desertification problem worse. The episode also highlights the need for global action to address climate change.

Overall, "The Desert Doesn't Bloom Here Anymore" is an informative and engaging episode that sheds light on the complex issue of desertification. By focusing on Las Vegas, the episode shows how a city can take steps to address this issue, and offers valuable insights for other regions that may be facing similar challenges.