Rivers in the Balkans, some of the cleanest and wildest in Europe, are under serious threat from the expansion of hydropower projects, according to a report by the NGO ClientEarth. If implemented, these plans could cause irreversible damage to this biodiversity-rich ecosystem, it warns.
Impact on the ecosystem
The Balkans are home to mostly untouched rivers, considered key reserves for European biodiversity. However, over 3 400 hydropower projects threaten the integrity of these rivers, putting many river species at risk. The ClientEarth report highlights the importance of these rivers for biodiversity, but warns of the irreversible damage they could cause. One of the key points noted in the document is the systematic non-compliance with European environmental standards by countries in the Western Balkans that are candidates for EU membership. Although these countries are obliged to carry out impact studies for every project, they are often superficial or incomplete.
Shortcomings in environmental compliance
Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, Montenegro and North Macedonia must comply with European environmental directives if they hope to join the European Union. However, the impact studies carried out are often described as administrative formalities rather than rigorous assessments. Ulrich Eichelmann of the NGO Riverwatch has criticised these studies, arguing that they are often biased. The aim is to hide possible environmental effects and satisfy the law without complying with the real requirements. Amelie Huber of ClientEarth explained that many of the studies are "copy-pastes" of other projects, with no real research or field assessments. This allows projects to proceed without sufficient resistance, which threatens the Balkan rivers ecosystem.
Potential consequences and solutions
Increasing the number of hydropower projects in the Balkans could lead to the privatisation of water resources that were previously considered common property. This situation could not only damage the environment, but also affect local communities that depend on these rivers for their livelihoods. The experts call for a rigorous review of environmental assessment procedures and for greater participation of local communities in the decision-making process. It is essential that Balkan governments take European environmental directives seriously and ensure that their precious natural resources are protected. The rivers of the Balkans are an ecological treasure that deserves strict protection. Hydropower facilities must be considered carefully in order to avoid irreversible damage. Only a sincere commitment to environmental sustainability can ensure the preservation of these ecosystems for future generations. I BGNES.
