Many break down, or sink into the mud, creating road blocks.

ECONOMIST: Lining up for a new life

Consumers can reduce the amount of water through direct action - by applying a water-saving showerhead, shutting off the tap during teeth brushing, by not disposing of medicines, paints or other pollutants down the sink etc.

UNESCO: MEDIA SERVICES

But there are several albatrosses that could slow torcetrapib down--or even sink it.

FORBES