Waterways become cleaner over time from "summary" of The World Without Us by Alan Weisman
Without constant human interference, nature has an impressive ability to heal itself. Take, for example, the waterways that crisscross our planet. When we envision a world without us, we see rivers and streams gradually returning to a state of cleanliness. Over time, without pollutants being dumped into them or dams blocking their flow, these waterways can undergo a remarkable transformation. As industrial activities cease and toxic chemicals are no longer introduced into the environment, aquatic ecosystems are given the opportunity to recover. The delicate balance of life in rivers and lakes can be restored, with plants and animals flourishing once again. Without the constant threat of contamination, fish populations can rebound, and the water itself can become clearer as sediment settles and pollutants break down naturally. In the absence of human structures like dams and levees, rivers can resume their natural course, meandering and shaping the land as they have for millennia. This allows for the creation of diverse habitats along the water's edge, supporting a variety of species and contributing to overall ecosystem health. Wetlands can also reestablish themselves, acting as natural filters that help purify the water and provide crucial habitat for countless organisms. The process of waterways becoming cleaner over time is a testament to the resilience of nature. Given the chance to recover from human impacts, rivers and lakes can gradually return to a state of balance and purity. As we imagine a world without us, we can envision these vital lifelines rejuvenating themselves, offering hope for a future where the waters run clean and teeming with life once more.
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