More than half of the world’s largest lakes are shrinking. Here’s why that matters.

By Nathan Rott

Human actions have caused “significant declines” in the amount of water stored in 53% of the planet’s largest lakes and reservoirs. Climate change and overconsumption are the primary drivers.

(Image credit: Claire Harbage/NPR/NPR)

Human actions have caused “significant declines” in the amount of water stored in 53% of the planet’s largest lakes and reservoirs. Climate change and overconsumption are the primary drivers.

(Image credit: Claire Harbage/NPR/NPR)

Source: More than half of the world’s largest lakes are shrinking. Here’s why that matters.