WHO researchers have pinned chronic kidney disease in Sri Lanka on heavy metals in agrochemicals.

Micro hydro sets can cheaply and quickly electrify remote communities in hilly and mountainous terrain.

Despite showing strong economic growth, much of the Asia-Pacific continues to face severe water and sanitation challenges, says a study.

US researchers have launched a small ceramic disc containing nanoparticles that can purify water in poor communities.

A new model could improve the prediction of monsoon rainfall and tropical storms over a vast area of Asia and the Pacific, says a paper.

The translation of available knowledge to home-grown needs is vital for developing nations' economies, says a review of SIDA's innovation.

Farming fish in Bangladesh's inundated rice paddies can improve food production and tackle climate change issues.

Brazil's science minister has used a world science academy meeting to outline proposals for a global science committee to tackle poverty.

Policymakers in Africa lack the data they need to make decisions or budget properly on environmental issues, say experts.

New ocean commission will provide informal advice to the UN and firms on issues such as overfishing and gaps in governance of the high seas.

Lack of environmental policies to protect watershed ecosystems prevents mitigation of its deterioration in the Brazilian Amazon, say experts.

Mobile-phone towers could help fill the gaps in African rainfall data and provide the power needed to keep vaccines refrigerated.

Indonesia is claiming success in forcing clouds to rain over the ocean before they reach flood-stricken capital Jakarta, but critics are unconvinced.

A coated cotton material that absorbs moisture from fogs and releases water as it warms could improve freshwater collection in arid areas.

The investment in watershed conservation and restoration programmes in Latin America reached US$84 million in 2011.

Using Norwegian fish breeding technology Nepal hopes to boost food security and provide livelihoods.

Scientists in the Middle East have identified soil microbes that could help make desert agriculture more resistant to salinity and drought.

Research suggests that growing crops on freshwater lakes could ease irrigation demands and boost global food supplies.

Andean indigenous people carry a gene that protects them from health risks associated with rapid excretion of arsenic from drinking water, says a study.