1. Three GorgesDam 1994 – 2009?

2. What is it? • Largest hydroelectric dam in the world • Largest construction project for China since building the Great Wall • Chinese government claims it has a positive impact on the region • It has a $25 + billion price tag • Construction started in 1994 and some aspects of the design are still continually being worked on

4. Why did they build it? • Yangtze River is the longest river in China at 4,000 miles. • For thousands of years it has been both a positive and negative aspect within the region. • Provides water for 380 million people and half of China’s food is grown along its banks • Overflows at times, and its floodwaters can kill thousands of people and leave millions homeless. • T.G.D. could put an end to the devastating floods

6. ENERGY OUTPUT • It is the world’s largest hydroelectric plant • Designed to generate more than 18 million kilowatts of electricity • That is equal to the level of output of 18 nuclear power plants

7. Controversy • Supporters --Energy & commercial benefits --More people in China’s future means they need MORE energy sources --More water available for irrigation --Allows large ships/tourist vessels to reach cities far upstream=economic growth • Opponents --Huge environmental and human costs --As water rises, pollutants in soil and in chemicals in abandoned factories will leach into the river—therefore threatening aquatic life and drinking water. --Archaeologists estimate that 8,000 unexcavated sites will be lost forever in a tomb of water. (cont. on next slide)

8. Controversy • Opponents --It will submerge hundreds of farms, villages, and nearly 13 major cities. --Nearly two million people will have to abandon their homes.

9. Draw a political / editorial cartoon about the Three Georges Dam Project.