Dead Sea Dying: Threatening a Place of Global Significance

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the environmental and historical significance of the Dead Sea, particularly its alarming shrinkage over recent decades. Participants explore the implications of this phenomenon and question the characterization of the situation as a "disaster of global magnitude." The scope includes environmental concerns and the impact of human activities such as water diversion.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the drastic drop in the Dead Sea's elevation and area over the last century, emphasizing its significance.
  • Another participant questions the use of the term "disaster of global magnitude," suggesting that a more severe event, like a large asteroid impact, might warrant such a label.
  • Some participants express skepticism about the severity of the situation, with one remarking that the Dead Sea might already be considered "dead."
  • There is a mention of water diversion as a broader issue affecting many lakes and seas worldwide, implying a systemic problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the characterization of the Dead Sea's situation as a global disaster, indicating a lack of consensus on the severity and implications of its shrinkage.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not fully explore the underlying causes of the Dead Sea's shrinkage or the specific impacts on local ecosystems and communities, leaving these aspects unresolved.

Ivan Seeking
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Throughout human history, the Dead Sea has amazed, healed, sheltered and soothed. But now the sea is dying. Or at least shrinking to an alarming extent.

In less than 50 years, the lowest point on Earth has dropped even lower - from 1,294 feet below sea level to 1,360 feet. The Dead Sea covers a third less area than it did a century ago; in some places there's so little water you could walk from the Israeli side to Jordan.

By all accounts, it is a disaster of global magnitude, threatening a place of vast religious, historic and environmental significance. Yet what to do about it is proving problematic. [continued]
http://www.sptimes.com/2003/10/20/Worldandnation/Trying_to_revive_the_.shtml
 
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I wonder what phrase the writer would use for a 1 mile asteroid hitting the Earth if this should be considered a "disaster of global magnitude"
 
Yah, why would this be such a global disaster?
 
and I thought the DEAD SEA was all ready dead

water diversion is killing many lakes/seas world wide