1) I believe that the author wants us to understand that the earth as we like it is much more fragile than the actual globe. I also agree with the article. The earth has been evolving for billions of years, but we have only been around for a few thousand and recording information for a fraction of that time. As the article said we are fighting an uphill battle to preserve a small time period of the earth's changing climate.
2) The major categories of hazards discussed are: Population and health, food, water, energy and climate, and biodiversity.
3) To help reduce the effects of water shortage farmers should implement more efficient watering systems, water delivery systems should be updated, and the government should at least make and enforce regulations dealing with water consumption.
4) A couple simple things that you can do to help eliminate water shortages are: water your lawns at night so less water evaporates before being absorbed, turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth, and don't let the water run while waiting for your shower to heat up.
