Environmental Effects of the Aswan DamThe article by Gilbert White discusses the concerns and effects of the Aswan Dam in Egypt. Written in 1988, it covers the Second High Dam built in the 1960s. The dam was built with funding from the Soviet Union, despite warnings from Egyptian scientists and engineers of serious problems that could arise. The rapidly growing population demanded more resources and more energy, and pressure was on the Egyptian government to provide. The construction of the dam aimed to achieve three objectives: to control the natural flooding of the Nile by retaining water in the reservoir; store water from the flood season for distribution throughout the year; and provide hydroelectric power. Implementation of the dam would create a reservoir zone and flood areas around the Nile. The area flooded by the dam displaced Nubians living on the coasts, both in Egypt and Sudan. The reservoir itself would create fishing grounds, navigation channels, energy sources and irrigation sources. With the increase in electricity supply with the addition of hydroelectric power, the price of electricity would decrease, while providing access to more Egyptians. Controlling water dispersion and extending access to water outside of the rainy season would allow for increased agricultural production and possible changes in crop patterns and types. The dam has sparked concerns about its negative effects from Egyptian engineers and international scientists. Many of the environmental concerns surrounding the Aswan Dam are consistent with issues discussed in the Environmental Management Conference and in the book "The Global Casino." There were concerns about erosion, sediment deposition and heavy flooding if the rivers flowed...... middle of paper ... already strongly felt; the ability and scope to plan for these effects is increasingly becoming a norm as environmental management becomes more of a priority during construction. Techniques to supplement fisheries in the reservoir to control overfishing could help address threats to Tillapia fisheries in the region. The environmental and social issues that have become concerns with the implementation of the Aswan Dam are very similar to all the issues that have been raised. provided as examples in class and in the text “The Global Casino”. Soil quality, water quality, wildlife and local people have all been affected by the implementation of the Aswan Dam. ReferencesMiddleton, Nicholas J. The Global Casino. Oxon: Routledge, 2015. White, Gilbert. “The Environmental Effects of the Aswan High Dam.” Environment 7 no. 30 (1988): 4-40.