Enrichment : Dokdo’s Hidden Resource -Deep Ocean Water
Deep Ocean Water refers to water found 200 or more meters below the surface, too deep to receive sunlight. The DOW originates in Greenland and takes approximately 2,000 years to circulate through the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans one time. When the circulating waters reach the Greenland Glaciers, they become extremely cold, increasing the volume of the DOW. This water reaches down 200 meters below the surface with temperatures around 2 degrees Celsius. The DOW does not mix with the warmer waters above, remaining separate, similar to a mixture of oil and water. The DOW is rich in nutrients and minerals and is known to be clean and safe from contamination.
Recently, many countries around the world have developed serious interest in DOW development as it has proven to be a valuable resource in the beverage, cosmetic, and medical industries, among others. About 90% of the ocean water around Korea is considered to be Deep Ocean Water. Development costs around Dokdo are expected to be less than other comparable regions, because Dokdo’s coastal seabed slopes are extremely steep. This allows for short pipelines to the island for transporting Deep Ocean Water.
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Summary
1. Dokdo is an island formed by volcanic activity about 4.6 million years ago.
2. Dokdo’s average temperatures are around 12 degrees Celsius, and its climate is affected primarily by cold currents.
3. About 249 different species of plant and animal life can be found on Dokdo, and the surrounding bodies of water are rich in marine life.
4. Dokdo is surrounded by an important resource, the Deep Ocean Water.