UNESCO warns: Wadden Sea under pressure through energy projects
UNESCO warns: Wadden Sea under pressure through energy projects
The continued discussion about the Wadden Sea is increasingly becoming the focus of global environmental policy. Especially the recent critical statements of the UNESCO have a highlight of the challenges with which the unique ecosystem is confronted.
UNESCO expresses concerns
During its 46th session in Neu-Delhi, UNESCO Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands criticized for the planned and realized infrastructure projects in the Wadden Sea World Heritage Site. A representative of the organization informed the German Press Agency that the reduction of resources such as oil, gas and salt contradicts the status of the Wadden Sea as a world heritage. These activities could have negative effects on the region together with the rising sea level.
The meaning of the Wadden Sea for biodiversity
The Nature Conservation Association of Germany (NABU) welcomed the UNESCO decision that complied with the association and other environmental organizations. NABU President Jörg-Andreas Krüger emphasized that intact nature was of essential importance for more than ten million wad and water birds. These birds are dependent on healthy coastal ecosystems to survive.
economic implications for the region
The effects on the local economy should not be underestimated: millions of tourists visit the North Sea coast annually to find relaxation in nature. These tourist flows are indispensable for the coastal municipalities. Krüger warned of the dangers that bring new gas bores and infrastructure projects such as LNG terminals for valuable coastal biotopes. In doing so, hydrogen and CO2 pipelines even cut important habitats in this unique natural area.
historical classification of the World Natural Heritage
The Wadden Sea recently celebrated the 15th anniversary of its appointment as the World Natural Heritage, an award that was awarded on June 26, 2009 due to its important geological and ecological properties. It stands on one level with other famous sites such as the Grand Canyon or the Great Barrier Reef. In 2011 this title was expanded to include the Hamburg Wadden Sea, while Denmark was added.
request for action of the NABU
The NABU demands that the sensitive ecosystems in the Wadden Sea are taken into account when planning energy infrastructure projects. It is suggested that cable routes and pipelines, wherever possible, are kept away from the sensitive coastal areas and instead moved to already used shipping routes.
The challenges that result from the balance between energy requirements, environmental protection and the preservation of natural areas are complex. The Wadden Sea plays a crucial role for nature and regional economy, and its preservation should be a top priority.
- Nag