Are the waterways and lakes in Europe any better than elsewhere in the world? I have it first-hand from the experts that people in Europe are exposed to ever greater dangers. I once saw a good film on the preparation of the Upper Rhine for commercial navigation that provided eloquent examples of the appalling condition of our rivers and lakes. It was clear that the exploitation of this river for economic advantages was not worth all the accompanying disadvantages. But it is not enough to inform the people; governments should also be quick to take remedial action in order to stop the pollution and killing of our lakes and rivers. The entire fish population is put in jeopardy and may die if the water continues to be poisoned. Soon it will be impossible for the aquatic animals and birds that live on these fish to survive. Most of us know that in many areas bathing is no longer permitted because of contaminated water.
Those who are aware of the existing problems can help by joining in the protests, which are gaining strength all the time. All of us can contribute personally by doing everything in our power to care seriously about tidiness and order with a view to preserving the beauty of the land, things that used to be automatic and taken for granted years ago.
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