The Yellow River in China

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses the Yellow River's historical significance to Chinese history and civilization and explains that it has supported the millions of people who have lived alongside it. The paper examines how the river has periodically caused an equal amount of sorrow through devastating floods and course changes throughout history. The paper explores how the river is currently faced with decreased flows due to over-exploitation, pollution from the surrounding industries, and continued silting. The paper concludes that concerted efforts are required on an emergency basis to find a solution to the problems facing the Yellow River.

Outline:
Introduction
Problems:
Silt Deposition
Floods & Course Changes
Decreased Flows
Environmental Degradation
Chemical and Biological Pollution
Solutions
Conclusion
References

From the Paper:

"Chemical and biological pollution of the surface and groundwater in the Yellow River Basin and the North China Plain is another serious concern. Discharge of industrial effluent and untreated sewage from cities and villages is common everywhere in China but is particularly damaging for the Yellow River. Surface water contamination is becoming increasingly important as water supplies decline and less dilution occurs. According to Dr. Zhongping Zhu, Principal Researcher with IWMI: "Water pollution in the Yellow River is exceptionally high...in 2000 less than 40% of the water was deemed drinkable after treatment, with 24% being classed as unfit for human consumption." (Quoted in "New Research Could Provide...")"

Sample of Sources Used:

• Chengrui, Mei, and Harold E. Dregne. "Review Article: Silt and the Future Development of China's Yellow River." The Geographical Journal. 167.1 (2001): 7.
• Haihua, Tong. "Yellow River sewage spill spawns fish kill." China Daily. 2004-07-03. October 7, 2006. <http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/english/doc/2004-07/09/content_346769.htm>
• Hoh, Erling. "Yellow River in Death Throes?" The Washington Times. August 31, 2001: 17.
• Liang, Qiuhua. "Yellow River -- China's Sorrow" March, 20, 2002. October 7, 2006. <http://users.ox.ac.uk/~wolf1016/yellow_river_flooding.htm>
• "New research could provide overdue solutions for saving China's imperiled Yellow River." Press Release by International Water Management Institute. October 21, 2003. October 7, 2006. <http://www.iwmi.cgiar.org/press/yellow_river.htm>

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