A study published in Communications Earth & Environment links 122 fossil fuel and cement producers, termed carbon majors, to half of the water crisis in the western United States. Emissions from these companies since 1950 are responsible for up to 64% of climate-related impacts on water resources.
The analysis quantified reductions in snowpack, streamflow, and increases in irrigation demand. Specifically, emissions from carbon majors have led to an annual loss of snow water equivalent equivalent to Lake Mead’s capacity and contributed to one-third of groundwater decline in California’s Central Valley. This research provides scientific evidence for economic damage attribution and future liability frameworks.
Source: Down To Earth