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http://www.sptimes.com/2003/10/20/Worldandnation/Trying_to_revive_the_.shtml
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http://www.sptimes.com/2003/10/20/Worldandnation/Trying_to_revive_the_.shtmlThroughout 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]
The Dead Sea is dying primarily due to human activities such as diverting water from the Jordan River, which is the main source of water for the Dead Sea. This has caused a significant decrease in the water level, resulting in a higher concentration of salt and other minerals in the remaining water.
The Dead Sea holds great historical, cultural, and religious significance, as it is mentioned in the Bible and is a popular tourist destination. It is also a unique ecosystem that is home to several rare and endangered species, making it an important location for scientific research and conservation efforts.
If the Dead Sea continues to shrink, it could have severe environmental, economic, and social consequences. The loss of the unique ecosystem and biodiversity could have a ripple effect on the surrounding areas, and the decrease in water levels could also impact industries such as tourism and agriculture.
Efforts are being made to address the issue of the Dead Sea's decline, such as the Red Sea-Dead Sea Water Conveyance project, which aims to divert water from the Red Sea to replenish the Dead Sea. There are also conservation efforts in place, such as the creation of nature reserves and the implementation of sustainable water management practices.
While it is challenging to reverse the Dead Sea's decline entirely, efforts are being made to restore the water levels and improve the overall health of the ecosystem. However, it will require significant international cooperation and sustainable solutions to achieve significant results.