Droughts, floods, and climate anomalies… All are consequences of prolonged human activity that has altered the Earth’s climate. The pursuit of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment has been reiterated for many years, yet the situation continues to worsen.
Top 7 Surreal Hypotheses That Would Occur if Humanity Fell Asleep for 1000 Years
So, if humanity suddenly fell asleep and woke up after 1000 years, what would our planet look like? Where would the 3.5 million tons of waste from Japan to California go? Would the plastic McDonald’s cups have vanished? Would the Earth be cleaner and more beautiful without human intervention?
Below are 7 surreal hypotheses that could become reality if we were to sleep or disappear for 1000 years.
1. Forests Would Regrow Everywhere on Earth
A heavily deforested tropical rainforest takes over 4,000 years to fully regenerate all of its features. However, in the absence of human impact, these forests would grow back much faster as they would not be hindered by human factors. Therefore, if humans were absent from the planet, not only would trees flourish, but the wildlife inhabiting these forests would also begin to increase in number.
2. A Large Number of Buildings Would Collapse
Most roofing materials used in house construction have a lifespan of 20-30 years. After a long period without human intervention, these roofs are sure to begin rotting. Consequently, wooden structures would be among the first to disappear without human care, followed by glass and metal constructions.
3. The Planet Would Be Pitch Black
On the first day after humans vacate Earth, most fossil fuel power plants would shut down, and food supplies would gradually dwindle. Times Square and Las Vegas would be among the last places to maintain light for a few more days. All food in refrigerators would begin to be attacked by roaches and rats.
In Alaska, oil containers would fill to the brim and then explode. Oil would start to spill, and gallons of oil would flow into the ocean.
4. Most Domestic Animals Would Go Extinct
Animals like small dogs and sheep would be among the most vulnerable and endangered without humans. Meanwhile, larger dogs like German Shepherds and wild breeds would be able to adapt in nature and protect themselves, as their competitive and wild nature would give them an advantage over weaker breeds.
5. Many World Monuments Would Only Remain as Ruins
Erosion and oxidation are among the greatest enemies of building materials. Therefore, not only monuments but also homes would require human maintenance after a certain period. Consequently, famous monuments worldwide, after 1000 years without maintenance, would certainly be reduced to piles of rubble.
6. Trees Would Cover Everything
The village of Houtouwan in China is the clearest example of this phenomenon after its entire population left in 2002. Just two decades later, nature completely reclaimed the area, covering the houses with vines and ivy. Therefore, you can already imagine the scenery after the world has been abandoned for 1000 years!
7. Many Cities Would Sink Beneath the Deep Sea
Not to mention the impact of melting ice causing sea levels to rise, typical cities like Amsterdam continue to exist today thanks to human maintenance.
However, if humans were not around to maintain systems like dams and bridges, the force of water would destroy these structures, causing vast amounts of water to flood in and submerge major cities beneath the deep sea.
