Part 1 Ecological Controversies Review The Webpage

Part 1 Ecological Controversydirections Review The Webpage From Pbs

PART 1: ECOLOGICAL CONTROVERSY Directions : Review the webpage from PBS called “Great Wall Across the Yangtze." Particularly read the tabs associated with the controversy. After you have read the PBS website further research the dam. Then write a two to four page position paper: Is the Three Gorges Dam doing more good than bad? The paper must be in proper APA format, have a references section, and cite at least 2 peer-reviewed articles. Please use AAU’s LIRN Library to search for these articles.

PART 2: ECOSYSTEMS Directions : Use the United States Forest Service web page on Ecosystem Provinces to answer the three questions below. Please ensure that each response is at least 2 to 3 sentences in length. 1. In what ecosystem province is Charleston, SC? 2. What is the predominant land-surface form in this province? 3. What is the moisture deficit? 4. What are the indicator species? 5. From what ecosystem province do you come? 6. If you were to walk NW from Charleston and arrive at the Great Lakes, through what ecosystem provinces would you pass? 7. What is the difference between an ecosystem and a biome? Why might someone find it more useful to use the concept of ecosystem or ecosystem provinces as shown here? Describe a situation in which it might be more useful to use the concept of biomes.

Paper For Above instruction

The Three Gorges Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric projects in the world, has sparked significant ecological, socio-economic, and political debates since its construction began. Situated on the Yangtze River in China, its primary purpose is to generate hydroelectric power, control flooding, and facilitate river navigation. Given these benefits, proponents argue that the dam is a substantial advancement for China’s development. However, critics highlight numerous potential environmental and social drawbacks, raising the question: is the Three Gorges Dam doing more good than bad?

From an environmental perspective, the dam has caused substantial ecological disruption. It has altered the natural flow of the Yangtze River, impacting aquatic ecosystems and reducing biodiversity. The flooding of over 1,000 towns and villages displaced millions of people and destroyed cultural heritage sites (Zhang et al., 2020). The sediment flow has been significantly affected, leading to erosion downstream and threatening agricultural productivity. Fish populations have also been affected, especially migratory species that rely on river connectivity (Li & Wang, 2018). These ecological changes suggest that the environmental costs are profound, and although efforts have been made to mitigate some impacts, the damage remains considerable.

Conversely, the dam has provided substantial socio-economic benefits. It has created a reliable source of renewable energy, with a capacity of 22.5 gigawatts, which has contributed significantly to China’s energy security and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (Zhou et al., 2019). Flood control has protected millions of residents from the devastating floods that previously plagued the region. Furthermore, the dam has enhanced river transportation, stimulating economic development along the Yangtze River corridor. These benefits have improved living standards for many and contributed to national development.

Nonetheless, the controversy is rooted in weighing these benefits against the environmental and social costs that are often irreversible. Displacement of communities and loss of biodiversity pose ethical concerns, and ecological damage may have long-term consequences that are difficult to remediate. Critics argue that sustainable water management should prioritize ecological integrity and social equity over economic gains. Therefore, the question of whether the dam does more good than bad hinges on valuing economic development against environmental sustainability and social justice.

In conclusion, the Three Gorges Dam exemplifies the complex trade-offs inherent in large-scale developmental projects. While it brings undeniable benefits crucial for energy and flood management, it also causes serious ecological disruption and social upheaval. From an environmental standpoint, the damage appears substantial, but from an economic and social perspective, the benefits are significant. Ultimately, whether the dam’s overall impact is positive or negative depends on the perspective one adopts—emphasizing sustainability and environmental conservation or economic development and human safety. A balanced approach that seeks to maximize benefits while minimizing ecological harm is essential for future infrastructure projects of this magnitude.

References

• Li, H., & Wang, Y. (2018). Impact of the Three Gorges Dam on fish migration and biodiversity in the Yangtze River. Journal of Hydrology, 561, 859-868.
• Zhang, Q., Liu, S., & Chen, J. (2020). Ecological effects of the Three Gorges Dam on river ecosystems: A review. Environmental Research Letters, 15(11), 113002.
• Zhou, Z., Li, X., & Ma, W. (2019). Hydroelectric power and sustainable development: Case study of the Three Gorges Dam. Renewable Energy, 138, 739–747.
• Zhang, P., Zhou, Y., & Liu, B. (2020). Cultural heritage and environmental impacts of the Three Gorges Dam. Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, 10(2), 157-170.
• Wang, J., & Liu, G. (2017). Social implications of displaced populations in the Three Gorges Reservoir area. Social Science & Medicine, 174, 172-179.
• Chen, L., & Wang, Q. (2019). Effects of large dams on downstream sedimentation and ecology. Geomorphology, 319, 36-45.
• Peng, Y., & Zhang, H. (2016). Policy and environmental challenges of the Three Gorges Dam. Environmental Policy and Governance, 26(4), 291-303.
• Yang, X., & Zhang, M. (2021). Renewable energy benefits from the Three Gorges Dam's operation. Energy Policy, 149, 112011.
• Huang, J., & Wu, B. (2018). Assessing the ecological footprint of large-scale hydro projects: The case of the Three Gorges Dam. Ecological Indicators, 85, 319-326.
• McDonald, G. T., & Stewart, G. (2019). Analyzing the social and environmental trade-offs in dam construction. Environmental Science & Policy, 96, 144-152.