Predictions Fall Short: Caspian Sea Water Level Decline Exceeds Expectations
SEA NEWS-The Caspian Sea, an unparalleled resource for coastal nations, including Iran, is facing new and alarming environmental challenges that have brought its crisis to the forefront. These issues go beyond previous crises such as water level decline or pollution from wastewater and industries, encompassing new threats that are impacting Iran’s biosecurity, economy, and social stability.
Unprecedented Decline in Water Levels: An Urgent Warning
Recent studies reveal that the rate of water level decline in the Caspian Sea is significantly faster than previously predicted. Scientists warn that by the end of the century, the sea may lose up to 18 meters of its current level. This phenomenon has already led to shoreline retreat in Iran’s coastal provinces, particularly Gilan and Mazandaran, placing port facilities, tourism infrastructure, and agricultural lands at serious risk.
Moreover, this decline is endangering the sensitive ecosystems of the Caspian Sea, including the Anzali and Miankaleh wetlands. These wetlands, vital habitats for migratory birds and aquatic species, play a key role in maintaining the region’s biodiversity.
Transboundary Industrial Pollution: A Threat to Iran’s Shores
A new concern is the spread of industrial pollution resulting from oil activities in neighboring countries. Kazakhstan, home to massive oil fields such as the Tengiz Field, is a major contributor to the influx of pollutants, including radioactive waste and oil toxins, into the Caspian Sea. These pollutants, carried by water currents, eventually reach Iran’s shores, reducing water quality, depleting marine life, and harming Iran’s fisheries industry.
Simultaneously, untreated wastewater and oil pollution from certain coastal countries persist, jeopardizing not only the livelihoods of Iran’s coastal communities but also the export of its fishery products.
Wildlife Crisis: Alarming Decline in Iconic Species
One of the most alarming consequences of the Caspian environmental crisis is the sharp decline in its iconic species. According to recent reports, over 4,000 endangered Caspian seals have been found dead along the shores in the past two years. This has reduced their already critical population to fewer than 70,000 individuals.
Additionally, sturgeon, the source of Iran’s once-thriving global caviar industry, is now facing the threat of extinction. The depletion of sturgeon stocks poses not only an economic blow but also a severe challenge to Iran’s position in the global caviar market.
Lack of Unified Oversight: A Gap That Must Be Addressed
One of the key issues in tackling this crisis is the absence of a unified regulatory and enforcement framework among coastal countries. Many regional agreements lack enforceable provisions, allowing large oil and industrial companies to operate without adhering to environmental standards. Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs must prioritize regional dialogue to address pollution control and hold neighboring countries accountable for adhering to environmental standards. Establishing compensation mechanisms for environmental damages affecting Iran’s coastal communities is also an urgent necessity.
The Caspian: More Than an Economic Resource
The Caspian Sea is no longer just an economic asset. As a natural and cultural heritage, it shapes the identity of coastal nations, including Iran. However, the current trajectory risks destroying this invaluable legacy. The future of the Caspian Sea depends on the decisions made today. Protecting this vital resource is not only the duty of governments but a collective responsibility for all coastal communities.
