During a debate on 8 September, MEPs highlighted severe water shortages in the region, which is historically symbolic for Christians, Jews and Muslims but has been harmed by pollution and exploitation.

BBC: Lower Jordan River

Some non-governmental organisations worry that Chinese firms will ignore basic legal, environmental and labour standards in their rush to secure resources, leaving a trail of corruption, pollution and exploitation in their wake.

ECONOMIST: A ravenous dragon | The

Population increase, over-consumption and galloping urbanisation have multiple consequences, including the increasing rarity of certain species of plants and animals, pollution, the over exploitation of land and the sea, as well as the spread of invasive alien species.

UNESCO: MEDIA SERVICES

With a focus on key topical issues such as marine pollution, exploitation and hazards, chapters range from the history of ocean management to current advances in marine science, observation and management applications, and the international agencies active in co-ordinating this work.

UNESCO: Troubled Waters

Total, more than 200 different natural resource exploitation projects are currently being targeted by protesters, who complain about environmental damage and water pollution.

FORBES: Connect