Background
The Yangtze River is the third longest river in the world, stretching from the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea across 3 provinces of China. For centuries, it has been an integral part of Chinese culture and has been known to turn red every few years with alarming regularity. The phenomenon is localised and is most frequently observed around the end of summer. Reports dating back several centuries have recorded sightings of red masses forming in the Yangtze, which have been variously described as red mud, blood, jelly, or weed. To this day, the cause of this phenomenon remains a mystery.
Theories
Initially, the phenomenon was attributed to a bleeding dragon, an oriental creature that had supposedly lived in the river since antiquity. It was believed that the dragon was angered and would retaliate against humankind by spilling its blood from the depths of the river. In recent times, however, scientists have put forward a variety of theories to explain the occurrence of this phenomenon.
One popular theory suggests that the river is polluted by iron oxide, which is released into the water as a result of human activity. The iron oxide reacts with the algae in the water and causes the water to turn red. Another theory suggests that the red dye, hydrogen peroxide, is released into the Yangtze. This theory is based on the observation that the river turns red whenever it rains heavily. Hydrogen peroxide is often used to treat sewage, which is released into the river during heavy rains.
Other theories have also been put forward to explain the phenomenon. It has been suggested that toxic red microbes, droplets of sediment and volcanic debris, and even a type of sticky red algae are responsible.
When Does It Turn Red?
The phenomenon of the Yangtze turning red is most frequently observed at the end of the summer. This is the time of the year when the water level is at its lowest, making it easier for pollutants to accumulate in the river. The phenomenon is also most likely to occur in areas that receive high amounts of rainfall, as this makes it easier for pollutants to enter the river.
However, the phenomenon is highly localised, and it is not possible to predict when or where it will occur. Scientists have observed that the red masses tend to form over a period of several days, after which the river gradually returns to its original colour.
Impact
The turning of the Yangtze River red has been a cause for concern for many Chinese. The red colour of the river is a stark reminder of how humans are damaging the environment, and of the need to take more effective measures to protect the river and its inhabitants.
The red colour of the river also puts the livelihoods of those who rely on the river’s water at risk. The polluted water is not suitable for drinking or fishing, and by polluting the water, humans are endangering the lives of many species of fish and other animals.
Impact On Tourism
The phenomenon of the Yangtze River turning red has had an adverse effect on tourism in the area. Tourists have been deterred by the sight of a red river, and the number of tourists visiting the area has drastically decreased.
At the same time, local authorities and environmental organizations have been trying to raise awareness about the phenomenon, and are encouraging tourists to visit and observe the river in order to raise awareness about the need to protect the environment.
Precautionary Measures
In order to tackle the problem of the Yangtze River turning red, authorities have implemented a range of measures, including the use of filtering technologies and the introduction of new regulations to prohibit the discharge of pollutants into the river.
In addition, local governments across the affected provinces are encouraging citizens to help protect the environment by reducing their energy consumption, avoiding the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and encouraging sustainable farming practices.
Role of Government
The Chinese government has taken many steps to tackle the problem of the Yangtze River turning red. In 2014, the government launched a nationwide campaign to tackle water pollution, targeting industries and businesses that discharge pollutants into the water.
The government has also invested heavily in research and development, in order to develop technologies that can be used to effectively treat sewage and other pollutants.
International Cooperation
The problem of the Yangtze River turning red is not limited to China, and calls for global solutions. As a result, the Chinese government has been actively engaging with other countries in order to develop solutions for the problem.
In 2016, China signed a number of international agreements, including the Paris Agreement, which was aimed at reducing global emissions. In addition, China has also entered into cooperation agreements with various international organizations, such as the World Wildlife Fund, in order to tackle the problem of water pollution.
Effects On Local Economies
The pollution of the Yangtze River has had a detrimental effect on the economy of the local region. Many businesses that rely on the river for transport, fishing, and other activities, have been significantly affected by the polluted water.
In addition, the polluted water has reduced the amount of fish that can be caught in the river, leading to reduced incomes for local populations who rely on fishing for their livelihoods.
Data Analysis
Data analysis of samples collected from the river has revealed that the pollutants that are responsible for the red colour of the water are mainly industrial pollutants, such as oil and petrol. As a result, it is apparent that the main cause of the phenomenon is human activity, and in particular, the discharge of pollutants into the river.
Nevertheless, the exact source of the pollutants remains a mystery, as it is difficult to pinpoint the exact source of the pollutants. In addition, there is no definitive evidence to suggest that the pollutants are released from a single source, or that they build up in the river over time.
Response From Government And Industry
In response to this problem, the Chinese government has taken various steps to control and reduce the amount of pollutants being discharged into the Yangtze River. In addition, the government is also working with local industry to develop and implement environmental safety standards, in order to reduce the impact of human activity on the river.
At the same time, the government is also working to reduce the amount of pollutants that are released into the river. For example, the government has implemented a set of regulations which limit the use of certain types of chemicals and has been encouraging industries to use renewable energy sources.
Role Of Media
In recent years, the media has played an important role in raising awareness about the phenomenon of the Yangtze River turning red. The media has highlighted the fact that the river is polluted and has publicised the various initiatives put forward by the government and various NGOs to tackle the problem.
The media has also been a key platform for citizens to express their concerns and opinions about the issue, thereby raising the political importance of the issue. The issue of the Yangtze River turning red has been widely publicised in the media, making it one of the most widely discussed environmental issues in the country.
Conclusion
It is clear that the phenomenon of the Yangtze River turning red has been caused by human activity, and in particular, the misuse and discharge of pollutants into the river. Although the exact source of the pollutants remains a mystery, it is apparent that the problem has to be addressed urgently in order to protect the environment and the local population.
The Chinese government has taken steps to reduce the amount of pollutants being discharged into the river, and is working with other countries and international organizations to develop better solutions. Local citizens, too, have an important role to play in protecting the environment, by reducing their energy consumption and avoiding the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
