Geological Origins of the Chang Jiang Yangtze River
The Chang Jiang Yangtze River is widely acknowledged as the third-longest river in the world, winding its way through eleven of China’s provinces and paving the way for important trade routes. But where does the Chang Jiang Yangtze River actually start?
The origin of the Chang Jiang Yangtze River is to be found in the high glaciers of Qinghai Province, in north-western Tibet at an altitude of about 5,000 metres above sea level. Two main tributaries form the tributaries of the Chang Jiang Yangtze River: firstly, the Dza Chu, also known as the Chishui River, and; secondly, the Lantsang River.
The Dza Chu, which translates to ‘snowy river’, rises in the Bayankala Range on the south-eastern part of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and forms the northernmost tributary. The Lantsang River, meanwhile, originates in the Gangdise Shan Mountains in south-east Tibet and forms the southernmost tributary.
These two rivers join together in steamy jungles of the Yunnan Province and face the breathtaking rapids of the ‘Three Gorges’ section of the Yangtze River. As the Chang Jiang Yangtze River continues onwards, it passes the city of Chongqing and then heads eastwards out to the East China Sea.
Geographical Influence of the Chang Jiang Yangtze River
The Chang Jiang Yangtze River has a profound influence on the Chinese landscape, carving its way through a mosaic of rich wildlife and providing irrigation for two generations of Chinese farmers. As the river travels across China, it creates the unique landscapes of the Three Gorges, from thundering waterfalls to more placid stretches. Furthermore, the turbulent waters of the Chang Jiang Yangtze River is a popular destination for white water enthusiasts, who want to experience the power of the Yangtze River first hand.
Moreover, apart from creating an amazing array of landscapes, the river is also an important source of shipping and transportation. Cargo ships, cruise liners, and ferry boats traverse the river, connecting the regions of south-west and east China and providing goods and services to the populous cities of Chongqing and Wuhan. This is only possible due to the navigable 1,000 km stretch of the river flowing past the ‘Three Gorges’ scenery, the most famous of which is the Three Gorges Dam, the largest of its kind in the world.
A visit to the Yangtze River will reveal both the natural beauty and historical value of Chinese culture, as visitors can look out for remnants of the river’s past civilizations in its rocky banks. From temples to ancient cities, the Yangtze River has a rich collection of Chinese heritage, which adds to its uniqueness and charm.
Environmental Impact of the Chang Jiang Yangtze River
Although the Chang Jiang Yangtze River is both culturally and geographically important, it has unfortunately had a negative effect on the environment. The river is often associated with pollution, deforestation, soil erosion, and hazardous shipping waste, making it one of the most heavily polluted rivers in China.
The notion of the Chang Jiang Yangtze River being a ‘toxic river’ is mainly attributed to the global increase in plastic pollution and the amount of waste generated by cargo ships. This has resulted in the river being home to a number of harmful materials, from microplastics to toxic chemicals, and has led to a significant decline in the river’s health.
Furthermore, the Yangtze River has also suffered from the effects of deforestation caused by human activities such as urbanization, mining, and industrialization. Over the years, this deforestation has had devastating impacts on the nature and wildlife of the Yangtze River Basin, leaving it unable to sustain its thriving biodiversity.
The Chinese government, however, has been working hard to manage the pollution and restore the river’s health. In response to growing environmental concerns, the government has implemented several projects to reduce the damage caused by climate change and promote environmental awareness.
Social Significance of the Chang Jiang Yangtze River
The Chang Jiang Yangtze River is not only a geographical and environmental milestone but also a symbol of the strong and unified Chinese society. In ancient China, the river was the very embodiment of Chinese treasures and the foundation of Chinese civilization, producing a powerful influence on the Chinese people.
Today, the Chang Jiang Yangtze River continues to be a source of inspiration for Chinese people all over the world, and a reflection of the collective spirit of the Chinese culture. Along its diverse banks, travelers are able to explore the many facets of China’s past and present, surrounded by inspiring monuments, gorgeous scenery and strong sense of community.
Economic Impact Of The Chang Jiang Yangtze River
The Chang Jiang Yangtze River has also provided immense economic benefit to the Chinese people. As previously mentioned, the river is a major trade route, connecting south-west with east China. In addition, it is also an important source of freshwater, allowing agricultural production and fishing industries to thrive.
Moreover, the seafood industry benefits from the Chang Jiang Yangtse River, with a variety of fish and other aquatic life such as crayfish, shrimps and crabs having been harvested from the river for millennia.
The river is also a major hydroelectric power source, with a number of hydroelectric facilities scattered along the three gorges section. The most notable of these is the Three Gorges Dam, which has become an engineering marvel and is one of the largest contributors to the Chinese economy.
Environmental Conservation And The Chang Jiang Yangtze River
Environmental conservation is becoming increasingly important in China and the Chang Jiang Yangtze River is at the forefront of this. The government has implemented numerous initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of the river, such as increasing public awareness, introducing stricter regulations, and investing in renewable energy sources.
The Chinese World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is a particularly involved with this. Since it was established in 1989, the WWF has worked tirelessly to protect the diverse and threatened species that live in and around the Chang Jiang Yangtze River.
In conclusion, the Chang Jiang Yangtze River is an essential part of Chinese culture, geography and history. Its significance to the people of China is undeniable and its importance for the socio-economic and environmental aspects of Chinese life is unquestionable.
