Start saving - or face 'disastrous outcome'

The lingering drought affecting northern China is a timely reminder that water conversation is essential to ensuring the food supply for the world's largest population, say experts.

The current four-month drought is the worst China has suffered in half a century. At least 12 provinces in northern China have suffered - 1,370 million hectares of crop areas have been affected, not to mention 4.3 million residents and two million livestock being left thirsty.

"Water is already a major stress factor for China's grain production, particularly in northern areas," says Shan Lun, China's leading specialist in dry-land farming.