What are the reasons for environmental degradation of the Mediterranean region?
Answer… Mass tourism is one of the main causes for the ecological loss in the region. According to sources, Mediterranean coastal areas, which receive 30% of international tourist arrivals, are already seriously damaged. Inefficient irrigation and drainage schemes, river engineering and dam construction have led to the depletion of groundwater resources. This has altered river and floodplain systems, resulting in loss of species and habitats. Other threats are activities such as dredging, drilling for oil and minerals, and shipping in the region. Every year 6,35,000 tonnes of crude oil are spilled by vessels into the Mediterranean Sea.
