Development & Aid, Environment, Tierramerica

The Rivers Flow

Feb 17 2002 (IPS) - Rivers are an unequivocal synonym of life. Their flows sculpt the land's geography, determine the traits of ecosystems and guide the settlement of civilizations. But in spite of their transcendent role, many rivers are in danger.

Nearly all rivers have characteristics in common. They originate from a water source, at a higher elevation, and follow a route that the water has traced over time, with the volume of water increasing as tributaries join the flow.

Rivers are a necessary source for freshwater, which supports life. The area of influence of a river is known as its basin, the preservation of which is a top priority for those who seek to protect ecosystems.

Throughout history, rivers have been very important for human civilization, which is why major cities and cultures have flourished along their banks. However, these water sources have been affected by our presence on Earth.

We humans produce pollution and our development projects change the course of river flows. One of the most conflictive situations involves the tens of thousands of dams, which are capable of ending the life of a river.

The Internet reveals a great deal of information about rivers, much of it provided by organizations dedicated to conserving these flows of fresh, live-giving water