The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is a large lake that borders Israel, Jordan, and the West Bank. It has the lowest land elevation on Earth, sitting 422 meters (1,385 feet) below sea level. The white "foam" that collects on the shores of the Dead Sea is actually salt.

In the past 35 years the Dead Sea has receded over 35 metres as a result of centuries of human intervention and political neglect. Today, all beaches but one are inaccessible to the public due to the danger of the sinkholes, creating a dark veil to the area's worst ecological crisis. In the Great War between nature preservation and economic aspirations, nature is always bound to lose.

Once Upon a Sea as an empathy tool, a call-to-action that is both visually immersive and educational will appeal to those who care about the planet and its preservation, community leaders across the world. We will find these active and passionate voices online, those in the environmental movements worldwide and those who are connected to issues in the Middle East.

The Dead Sea has receded dramatically due to human intervention and political neglect. The sweet water that fed the sea was used for irrigation. Potash evaporation pools left behind a ravaged land ridden with sinkholes.

Today, all beaches but one are inaccessible to the public due to these dangerous sinkholes quickly becoming one of the region’s worst ecological crisis. The destruction is progressing, causing many political battles as well as financial & personal distress to residents and individuals who have dedicated their lives to the sea. Israelis, Jordanians and Palestinians have been affected by the demise of the Dead Sea. If nothing is done, the Dead Sea as we know it will be gone for good. Once Upon a Sea is our call to action.

The Dying of the Dead Sea - Smithsonian Magazine
Dead Sea drying: A new low-point for Earth - BBC
A Dwindling, Dying Dead Sea - State of the Planet
Destruction of the Dead Sea - EcoMena