The rebirth of the Avatar mountains: in China removed over 50 tons of waste from the UNESCO site (thanks to viral videos on social media)

In the heart of the Province of Hunanin south-west of China, the famous stands Zhangjiajie National Forestry Parkfamous for its columns of Quartzarenite who inspired the scenography of the film “Avatar”. Yet, just near this natural wonder, a very less cinematographic reality emerged: tons of garbage they had been hidden for years in the karst caves of the area.

The case of the mountains of Avater exploded when some speleologistsduring explorations in Cili Countyshared Shocking videos on Chinese social networks: images of waste piled up to eight floors of heightwith chemical containers, plastic and even animal excrements. The images went around the web, triggering the indignation of public opinion.

An underground landfill a decade long

The authorities confirmed that the waste date back to the period between the 2010 and 2016when in the area it was forbidden to burn outdoor garbage, but separate collection systems were not yet active. In the absence of alternatives, the caves came used as improvised landfills: an apparently common practice and, in some cases, organized by the villages themselves.

Among the most affected areas are the caves Yangjiapo And Datiankengwhere they have already been removed over 51 tons of waste. The operations, however, have been temporarily suspended due to the discovery of toxic air inside the cavities.

A beauty at risk despite record tourism

The paradox is evident: while the Crar lift bags full of garbagea few tens of kilometers thousands of tourists crowd the attractions of the park, such as theBailong glass lift or the record suspended bridge, the Sky Ladder.

Only on the bridge of June 2, the area welcomed almost 400,000 visitors. Yet according to experts the damage to karst slopes they could be irreversiblewith risks for the quality of the water and for the Aquatic ecosystems. The government has launched inspections over 200 cavesof which two thirds are contaminated. Four officials have been suspended and twelve farms are under investigation for illegal discharges. But unfortunately, it was once again the environment.