The toxic state of one of Switzerland’s longest rivers
Many years ago hydroelectricity attracted energy intensive manufacturing to the canton of Valais, much of it along the banks of the Rhône river. These activities, which include aluminium smelting, synthetic fertiliser production and chemical manufacture, boosted the local economy but have also left a legacy of pollution that continues to affect the river and ground water in the canton.
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Pollution from these industries was poorly managed up until the end of 1970s when laws and practises changed. Some dumpsites have been cleaned up, however, much of the pollution from this era remains, according to RTS.
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