Traveling allows us to get to know the world. There are countless attractions that we need to see at least once in this lifetime. But being a globally-minded citizen means recognizing the disappearance of the things we love. A lot of attractions and destinations are greatly affected by climate change, like the magnificent glaciers of Montana and the penguins of the Galapagos Islands.
Some of the world’s treasures may not be here past our lives. However, we can do our part to improve this. We can help by traveling safely with environmentally friendly tour operators, lessening our carbon footprint, and helping to reduce emissions.
There is so much to see in the world, but you might want to start with sights that won’t be around forever. Soon many popular attractions may just be only memories. Here are some attractions and destinations you need to see before they vanish.Â
Taj Mahal
Travelers have two to five years to visit the Taj Mahal before it collapses and is gone forever, according to some historians. Air pollution has damaged the exterior of the building, and the wooden foundations on which it rests are rotting. The Taj Mahal is built on the edge of the Yamuna River, which is now running dry due to overuse and deforestation. Without rain, most believe that the land will give way to the cracks in the foundation and the attraction as we know it will no longer be.
The Taj Mahal is nearly 400 years old and is suffering severe aging on its iconic facade, prompting local authorities to ban cars from the city to reduce pollution. Thanks to acid rain and air pollution, the mausoleum is losing its pearly shine. Plus, the significant number of visitors each year has been wearing down the marble walls and floors.
Dead Sea
The Dead Sea, known in Hebrew as the Salt Sea, is one of the world’s saltiest water bodies with a salinity of about 34%. The salt is only getting saltier because of what has happened over the years. With increasingly less water, the Dead Sea is changing quickly.
The Dead Sea has shrunk by one-third over the past 40 years and sunk by 80 feet. Neighboring countries have drained water from the Jordan River, the Dead Sea’s only water source, leaving former seaside resorts and attractions no longer on the water’s edge. If this continues, experts conclude that within 50 years, it may be gone completely, so don’t miss your chance to experience this natural wonder.
Galapagos Islands’ Penguins
The Galapagos Islands and their majestic flora and fauna are a sight to behold, but increasing ocean temperatures have caused the death of some of the reefs. The land animals that rely on the reef and seaweed for food have been affected by this in turn. The Galapagos penguin, which nests on the fragile coastline, is of particular concern. Thankfully, rangers are already focusing on the further inland development of penguin habitats.
The Great Barrier Reef
The most extensive living coral system in the world has long been a paradise for aquatic lovers. You won’t find such vivid and colorful underwater experience anywhere on earth. The Great Barrier Reef extends over 344,400 km2. However, according to a recent study, rising water temperatures over two years have already resulted in a massive coral die-off. The Great Barrier Reef is decaying rapidly, so go and visit it while you can.
Glacier National Park
Located in Northwest Montana, Majestic Glacier National Park is an oasis for nature lovers and those seeking a soothing retreat. It’s losing its prized glaciers, however. There are currently only 25 of 150 left. The bad thing is that the remaining glaciers are too late to be saved. With rising temperatures, the Glaciers will continue to melt until they are just a memory of the past.
Conclusion
Mother nature offers a lot for us to witness. However, because of climate change, time may be running out for us to enjoy these attractions and destinations. But, it is not too late! You can still visit these places and learn how taking immediate action to combat climate change! For other destinations to help you reconnect with nature, click here.
