China's Three Gorges Dam: An Environmental Catastrophe?

[Ivan Seeking]

SHANGHAI—For over three decades, the Chinese government has dismissed warnings from scientists and environmentalists that its Three Gorges Dam—the world's largest—had the potential of becoming one of China's biggest environmental nightmares. But last fall, denial suddenly gave way to reluctant acceptance that the naysayers were right. Chinese officials staged a sudden about-face, acknowledging for the first time that the massive hydroelectric dam, sandwiched between breathtaking cliffs on the Yangtze River in central China, may be triggering landslides, altering entire ecosystems and causing other serious environmental problems—and, by extension, endangering the millions who live in its shadow. [continued]

http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=chinas-three-gorges-dam-disaster

 

[vanesch]

Brilliant! I love these large-scale experimental facilities

 

[quicknote]

As a scientist, it is concerning to see the potential environmental consequences of the Three Gorges Dam in China. The fact that the Chinese government has ignored warnings from scientists and environmentalists for over three decades is alarming. It is important for governments to take into consideration the potential impacts of large-scale projects on the environment and surrounding communities before proceeding with them.

The recent acknowledgement by Chinese officials of the dam's negative effects is a positive step towards addressing the issue. It is crucial that further research is conducted to fully understand the extent of the environmental damage caused by the dam and to find ways to mitigate its effects.

One of the biggest concerns with the Three Gorges Dam is its impact on the Yangtze River and its surrounding ecosystems. The dam has altered the natural flow of the river, which can have significant consequences for the plants and animals that rely on it. It is essential that measures are taken to minimize the damage and restore the balance of the ecosystem.

Furthermore, the potential danger to the millions of people living in the shadow of the dam cannot be ignored. Landslides and other environmental issues could have serious consequences for their safety and well-being. It is the responsibility of the Chinese government to ensure the safety of its citizens and take necessary actions to address any risks posed by the dam.

In conclusion, the Three Gorges Dam in China is a reminder of the importance of considering the potential environmental impacts of large-scale projects. It is crucial for governments to listen to the concerns of scientists and environmentalists and take necessary measures to mitigate any negative effects. Further research and action is needed to address the issues surrounding the Three Gorges Dam and ensure the protection of the environment and its inhabitants.