Sand mining helps to clear Yellow River

THE MIDDLE REACHES OF THE YELLOW RIVER that were long known for their thick sediment have been relatively clean for more than a decade, according to reports. Beijing News commented on Wednesday:

To the surprise of many, the clearing of the sediment is the result of market forces and the increase in economic activities, which are commonly considered to be a hazard to ecological systems.

Apart from climate change, ecological protection and water conservancy projects, the thriving sand mining along the 1,200-kilometer middle course of the Yellow River has cleared the once-muddy water. It is estimated that more than 100 million metric tons of sand are extracted from the Yellow River per year to be used as construction materials, which are constantly in demand thanks to urbanization. Technological advancements have made it easier and cheaper to extract the sand.