Sinking of the Caspian Sea

February 26, 2025

The Caspian Sea, the world’s largest enclosed body of water, is facing alarming environmental challenges. Recent reports indicate drop in water levels, which poses a threat to the region’s biodiversity and human activities. Environmental activists and officials are calling for immediate collective action among the five bordering nations – Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Russia, Turkmenistan, and Iran. The situation demands urgent attention to prevent further degradation.

Geography

The Caspian Sea spans approximately 370,000 square kilometres.
It is bordered by five countries. The northern part has less salty water and shallower depths.
The southern part is saltier and reaches depths of 1,025 metres.
This unique geographical feature makes it distinct from other water bodies.

Biodiversity and Resources

The Caspian Sea is home to over 130 fish species. It serves as the world’s largest spawning ground for sturgeon, which are crucial for caviar production. The region also supports more than 100 species of wetland birds. However, many species are threatened due to pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction.

Environmental Challenges

The Caspian Sea faces severe environmental issues. Pollution from oil and gas companies is rampant. Climate change and habitat destruction further exacerbate these problems. The decrease in biodiversity affects local communities that rely on fishing and tourism for their livelihoods.

International Cooperation

The need for joint management of the Caspian Sea has led to the establishment of the Caspian Environment Programme (CEP). Launched in 1998, the CEP aims to combat environmental degradation. The Tehran Convention, signed in 2003, serves as a legal framework for environmental protection. It focuses on pollution prevention and marine environment restoration.

Key Initiatives and Agreements

The Tehran Convention was ratified by all five littoral states in 2006. This treaty establishes guidelines for environmental monitoring and research. It promotes the principles of precaution and accountability. The convention aims to protect the marine ecosystem and ensure sustainable development.

Future Outlook

The future of the Caspian Sea hinges on effective collaboration among bordering countries. Immediate action is essential to address the environmental crises. Sustainable practices must be adopted to protect this vital resource for future generations.

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