Our Future in a Warming, Water-Stressed, World

The ANU Institute for Water Futures and the ANU Fenner School for Environment & Society are pleased to invite you to a public lecture: Our Future in a Warming, Water-Stressed World by Professor Robert Glennon. A leading water policy and law expert, Professor Glennon will reflect on what has happened, is happening, and must happen to solve the global water crisis and secure food supply for the globe.

About the topic

Population growth and climate change present an immense challenge: How will we feed the Earth's population, estimated to be 10+ billion by 2050? Farmers currently use 80 percent of available water, but cities and industry need more water. A profound challenge faces us: How do we keep rural agricultural communities vibrant so they can produce food for the world, and satisfy the demand of municipal and industrial users for more water?

Technological developments promise another green revolution, but at a great cost. Pioneering food and beverage companies are pushing the boundaries of innovation with water reuse programs that reduce their water footprints as they improve their bottom lines. Professor Glennon explores options for protecting rural communities while securing a food supply for the globe.

About the speaker

Robert Glennon is one of America's preeminent experts on water policy and law. The recipient of two National Science Foundation grants, Professor Glennon serves as an advisor to governments, corporations, think tanks, law firms, and NGOs looking to solve serious challenges around water sustainability and planning.

He is the author of Unquenchable: America's Water Crisis and What To Do About It; Water Follies: Groundwater Pumping and the Fate of America's Fresh Waters; and Shopping for Water: How the Market Can Mitigate Water Shortages in the American West.

A sought-after speaker and analyst, Professor Glennon helps reporters and the public understand the current water policy landscape and what we can do to build a sustainable water future. He contributes regularly to national print media including the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal. His speaking schedule has taken him to more than 30 US states as well as to Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

He is a Regents Professor and Morris K. Udall Professor of Law and Public Policy in the Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona.

About the event

This is an in-person-only event. A recording will be available afterward. A complimentary light lunch with Professor Glennon will follow the lecture.