The Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable symbols of freedom and democracy in the world. However, many people wonder why this iconic monument is green. The answer lies in its composition, history, and the effects of weathering over time.

Several environmental factors contribute to this transformation. The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, where it is subjected to salty ocean air, humidity, and varying temperatures. These conditions accelerate the oxidation process, allowing the patina to develop more quickly than it would in a drier climate.

Interestingly, the green patina is actually beneficial for the statue. It acts as a protective barrier, preventing the copper beneath it from deteriorating. Although there have been efforts to maintain and clean the statue, the patina is largely preserved to protect the integrity of the monument.