3.7 Case Study - Pearl River Delta

Question 1

Location

Answer 1

Located in South-East China, the Pearl River is China’s third longest river

Question 2

Mouth of Pearl River

Answer 2

The Pearl River enters the South China Sea to the south-east of Guangzhou

Question 3

Pollution sources around the Pearl River delta

Answer 3

• Air pollution from power plants - there are both gas and coal fired power stations in the region
  
  • emissions lead to smog, acid rain and add to enhanced g.e.
• Toxic waste from factories and sewage from large population released into the rivers

Question 4

Impacts of pollution on Pearl River Delta (name 3)

Answer 4

• Highest level of acid rain in China
  
  • leads to acidified groundwater
• Increase in heavy metals in river water
  
  • harmful to humans and wildlife
  • pass through food chain
• Pesticides affect wildlife and accumulate in the food chain impacting human health
• Fertilisers lead to eutrophication