Russia

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Russias Water Crisis

  1. Russia http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-02-17/russia-s-lake-baikal-water-level-nearing-critical-stage
    1. In Russia Lake Baikal fell to 1 cm above critical levels. This lake is where the world gets 20% of its freshwater. Since 2013 the water levels have fallen around 40cm which is major. This drop will ensue many changes is the surrounding towns and areas pertaining to water usage. The Russian government is talking about rationing because of the rest of the world’s dependence on this source. They are also waiting to make any major decision because usually by May the water is restored to its usual levels. One other way that the government is ensuring water security is by flowing some of the water down rivers to hydroelectric power plants to generate power. This will help save money and keep neighboring towns powered.
    2. This relates to Environmental Science because many aspects are being discussed that are relevant. The way that the water is being used is efficient and forward thinking. This article is also helpful because is further emphasizes our drought and dependence on one source of water. We need to start thinking about other ways we can get clean drinkable water.
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Russia helps Iran build nuclear plants

Levs, Josh. “Russia Steps up Nuclear Plans in Iran as Talks near Deadline – CNN.com.” CNN. Cable News Network, 11 Nov. 2014. Web. 01 Mar. 2015. <http://www.cnn.com/2014/11/11/world/meast/iran-russia-nuclear/index.html>.

In this article we see a growing nuclear power in iran which has been greatly encouraged by the russians. The russians have announced plans to build new nuclear reactors in iran which has made the international community concerned. The plans encompass the building of 8 new nuclear reactors for the use of nuclear power. The russians have also planned with iran that all of the used fuel be sent back to russia so that russia can dispose and store the nuclear fuel. The israeli prime minister was against building the new reactors but has no option but just to see how things unfold. Also there have been allegations between iran and israel but they have seemed to have stayed passive for the moment.

I feel that it is not bad for iran to receive the help from russia to build the 8 reactors if it is for nuclear energy but if iran starts using these plants to develop weapons it might be difficult for other countries to end their nuclear programs. Also i feel that iran should be able to build their own nuclear power more without the help of russia but due to the high restrictions imposed on iran russia was forced to step in and give iran a fair chance at the nuclear power race. It is also crucial for the world to keep israel and iran in a passive state in order to avoid any potential conflicts or use of wmd’s.