Slovakia, known for its abundant freshwater resources in Central Europe, is facing a looming environmental crisis. Recent reports indicate that due to climate change, the country might lose up to half of its water resources in the coming decades.
The rise in global temperatures has subjected Slovakia to a dual threat: reduced precipitation and increased evaporation. These factors have led to unprecedented dryness across the nation. Reservoirs like Rusovce, near the capital Bratislava, are experiencing significant scale-downs, alarming environmentalists and the public alike.
“Mostly in the middle of Slovakia, water sources are disappearing, and there aren’t enough incoming sources to re-supply,” explains Lubos Jurik, an associate professor at the Slovak Agricultural University. “In reservoirs, the quality of water goes down, and algae start multiplying, endangering them. This is a direct influence of climate change. Our water sources are overheating.”
The situation in Slovakia serves as a cautionary tale for nations worldwide, including those in Asia. Countries across Asia are also grappling with the impacts of climate change on their water resources. The challenges faced by Slovakia highlight the urgent need for global cooperation in addressing environmental sustainability and implementing effective climate action strategies.
Reference(s):
Slovakia faces climate change, water shortage and deforestation
cgtn.com
