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In Niger, two devastating droughts have killed hundreds of thousands of people. Climate scientists don't know whether global change will make West Africa wetter or more parched. Growing trees — which Niger is doing — is a way to prepare for either development.

Firefighters reported some progress Tuesday against a gigantic blaze on the edge of Los Angeles, but warned that this one might be just a preview of even greater dangers ahead.

A group of respected world leaders who call themselves "The Elders" have made it their goal to find solutions for a host of intractable global problems. Two members, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former President of Ireland Mary Robinson discuss their accomplishments and ongoing projects.

There’s at least one silver lining to the recession this summer: Reduced energy demand. Vacant homes and empty office spaces mean less electricity is being used.

China is failing to curb smoking, despite attempts by anti-smoking campaigners. That might be because on a national level, tobacco plays an important role, providing Beijing's biggest single source of tax revenue. Last year's revenue topped $75 billion.

Mandatory water-use restrictions start Wednesday in Escondido. Similar water-use restrictions went into effect last month in the city of San Diego.

Airs Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at 8 p.m. on KPBS TV

Today is the first day of mandatory water restrictions for most of San Diego County. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce says the conservation measures are intended to reduce the water demand by 20-percent.

Every spring and summer, after the winter thaw allows, about a dozen Navajo families still return to their old homesteads at the bottom of Arizona's Canyon de Chelly. The canyon has cradled human civilization for thousands of years.

A draft report released Friday warns that climate change could threaten the lives of hundreds of millions of people in the decades to come. The international panel of scientists predicts drought and drying in many regions, including the American West.