Many cultures have treated bodies of water as convenient
repositories for trash, "bottomless" sources of food and natural
resources, or something to be dredged, filled, or drained when deemed
necessary. Although we know better in these environmentally-aware times,
misuse continues around the world, while areas with improving attitudes and
practices will remain scarred for years to come. Here are a few examples
human-induced impacts upon coral reefs observed around the Pacific. |