Core Viewpoint - Hydropower is an essential and sustainable energy source that plays a significant role in social development, despite facing some environmental concerns and criticisms [1][3][18] Historical Development - Hydropower has a long history, with its origins tracing back to ancient times when water wheels were used to reduce labor intensity [5] - The first application of hydropower for lighting occurred in 1878, and the first hydropower station was established in the U.S. in 1882 [7] Current Achievements - The Three Gorges Dam in China, completed in 2006, is a notable achievement, generating over 100 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, accounting for 14% of the country's total hydropower output [9] Environmental Concerns - There are ongoing debates regarding the environmental impact of hydropower, with some arguing that it disrupts ecosystems and can lead to significant ecological changes [3][14] - The U.S. has seen a trend of dam removals, primarily targeting old and ineffective structures, while many useful dams are being rebuilt [11] Benefits of Hydropower - Hydropower stations provide critical flood control, especially in flood-prone agricultural countries like China, and serve multiple functions such as irrigation and navigation [13] - It is recognized as a clean and renewable energy source, contributing to low-carbon energy production [13] Drawbacks of Hydropower - The construction of hydropower stations can alter natural ecosystems, affecting both aquatic and terrestrial species, and may induce seismic activity [14] Future Outlook - Despite some negative impacts, hydropower remains an irreplaceable green energy source, with potential advancements in technology that may lead to more environmentally friendly and efficient power generation methods in the future [18]

Group 1: Water Infrastructure and Its Importance - Water infrastructure is crucial for the quality of life and safety of citizens, with historical significance in irrigation and flood control [1][2] - Modern water infrastructure has evolved to include multiple functions such as hydropower generation, which aligns with environmental sustainability goals [2][4] Group 2: Global Perspectives on Water Projects - The construction of water projects, such as the canal project in Cambodia led by China, is seen as a significant development initiative [1] - China has rapidly advanced in hydropower technology, surpassing the US in installed capacity by 2004 and currently leading in global hydropower generation [4] Group 3: Environmental Concerns and Criticism - Critics, particularly from the US, argue that dams can have detrimental ecological impacts, citing examples like the Three Gorges Dam affecting fish migration [6][7] - However, the US has faced its own challenges with aging dams, with over 15,000 identified as having serious safety issues, leading to their removal for economic and safety reasons rather than purely environmental concerns [7][9] Group 4: Ethical Considerations in Criticism - Criticism from US engineers regarding China's water projects may reflect a denial of the US's own historical water infrastructure issues and an attempt to maintain global leadership by undermining developing countries [9]