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Challenges related to resources and energy have led several countries to invest in ambitious megaprojects. But are these grandiose solutions really effective?
British Columbia, Canada, has always been a reference in energy innovations. Recently, the region has been the site of one of the most controversial construction sites: the Site C hydroelectric plant. The megaproject was presented as a watershed for clean energy in the country, promising to end the use of fossil fuels.
With a planned capacity of 1000 MW, the plant will generate enough energy to supply around 450 thousand homes annually. But why, then, does a clean energy project generate so much controversy?
Energy and controversies in megaprojects
Since the 1970s, Site C has been the subject of heated debates. Initially rejected, the work was approved in 2014 after a rigorous environmental assessment. The project, which has an estimated cost of 16 billion dollars, faces criticism for its environmental impact, mainly the flooding of agricultural land. Experts warn that the demand for energy may not justify such environmental intervention.
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Megaprojects: solutions or problems?
Another example of a megaproject is the Nile River in Egypt. The government is transforming desert areas into fertile land to reduce dependence on imports. However, this endeavor also faces technical and environmental obstacles, such as high saline levels in the soil and irrigation problems. Despite the challenges, the project advanced, aiming to create a new Nile delta, essential for the country's food security.
Egypt: initiative to transport water from Lake Nasser to new agricultural areas
In Egypt, the grandeur of megaprojects is remarkable. The initiative to transport water from Lake Nasser to new agricultural areas is an example of how countries try to reconfigure their resources. However, issues such as financing through international loans and the army's participation in the works generate distrust and criticism.
Saudi Arabia, one of the largest oil producers, is also investing in sustainable energy
Saudi Arabia, one of the largest oil producers, is also investing in sustainable energy. Center pivot irrigation projects have transformed the desert into farmland. However, the intensive use of non-renewable water resources raises concerns about long-term sustainability.
Megaprojects present innovative solutions to resource problems and energy. However, they are not free from controversies and challenges. Economic viability and environmental impacts are crucial points that need to be carefully considered. After all, do the ends really justify the means? The answer to this question is still open, and only time will tell whether these projects will be seen as engineering milestones or as lessons in natural resource management.
