In the last 40 years the sea level of the Dead Sea has sunk 16 metres, leaving behind white, salty residues on the sandy shore. Ecologist Gidon Bromberg believes industry and over-development may have robbed the sea of its chance to rejuvenate. For years, the shimmering waves and oases of palm trees have provided a natural spa tourists. Lured by the therapeutic benefits of low humidity and oxygen rich air, they can float in the water and read books or cover themselves in black mud to soak up the medicinal effects. But as new international hotels spring up, Bromberg laments the lack of co-operative strategy between Jordan and Israel. He says, "there is no holistic plan" and worries that industrial mineral plants on both sides of the sea continue to drain the basin. If there is still hope of hydrating the patchy ground and sandy shelves surrounding the sea, then development of this historical and geographical treasure must be properly controlled.

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