Tue, 27/05/2025 - 18:20
Environmental Challenges of the Caspian Sea Discussed at XI Nevskiy Ecological Congress
The XI Nevskiy International Ecological Congress took place in Saint-Petersburg on 22–23 May 2025, bringing together experts, policymakers, and environmental organizations. One of the key sessions focused on the urgent environmental challenges facing the Caspian Sea and the need for coordinated action among the littoral states.
Participants discussed the alarming drop in the Caspian Sea level, which has reached historic lows, threatening coastal ecosystems, biodiversity, and regional infrastructure. The northern and eastern parts of the sea were noted as being particularly vulnerable to desiccation. Speakers highlighted that the situation is driven by a complex mix of climate change, reduced river inflows, and unsustainable human activities.
It was emphasized that the preservation of the Caspian Sea requires joint efforts. Proposals included enhancing regional cooperation, restoring fish stocks, developing early warning systems, and reducing the environmental footprint of economic activities. The importance of shared monitoring mechanisms and joint scientific assessments was also stressed as a basis for effective response.
The session reaffirmed the shared responsibility of all five Caspian countries to safeguard the sea's ecological integrity for future generations. In this context, the Framework Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea – the Tehran Convention, was highlighted as a key regional legal framework. The Coordinator of the Secretariat of the Tehran Convention, Mr. Mahir Aliyev, participated in the discussions, underlining the Convention’s role in facilitating cooperation and promoting sustainable environmental governance in the Caspian region.