Read updates on the Mediterranean Alliance for Wetland’s three red alert, in Camargue, Urdaibai and Lake Marmara

Camargue Under Threat: Mega-Infrastructure Projects Continue

The Camargue, the second-largest delta in the Mediterranean and a vital natural habitat, is currently threatened by several large-scale infrastructure projects. These developments pose significant risks not only to the natural habitats, but also to the Mediterranean avifauna that use this protected area as a migratory stopover, nesting or wintering area.

On September 27, the French electricity transmission network operator (RTE) presented a proposed route for an extra high-voltage power line (EHV) to the State representative, claiming it to be the “least-impact” option. However, the planned path for the power line would intersect with four Natura 2000 sites, the Coussouls Nature Reserve, the Camargue Regional Nature Park, all part of the larger Camargue Biosphere Reserve.

The approval of this route by the State came with several conditions:

• The National Commission for Public Debate (CNDP) has been tasked with organizing a comprehensive regional planning debate of all proposed projects in the area.
• There is also a mandate for an independent evaluation within three months to confirm that whether burying the power line is not a feasible alternative that meets the region’s energy demands within the necessary timeframe.
• Additionally, an update on the requests for electrical connections in the region is required.

Despite these conditions, the decision has sparked a continuing debate about the best way to balance decarbonization with conservation. A local collective has already proposed an alternative solution that seeks to harmonize energy transmission needs with the imperative to conserve natural habitats.

As discussions progress, the future of the Camargue’s unique ecosystems remains uncertain. Stay tuned for further updates on how you can support efforts to protect this iconic wetland!

The Urdaibai Red Alert has been launched!

The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a crucial habitat in Spain renowned for its stunning estuary and vital role as a migratory bird stopover, faces a significant threat from the proposed expansion of the Guggenheim Museum. This expansion risks causing irreversible damage to the area’s diverse ecosystems and the species that rely on them.

A dedicated Task Force has been established in response to this imminent threat. The coalition, composed of Platform Stop Guggenheim (the local collective),  CIREF, WWF Spain, SEO Birdlife, Youth Engaged in Wetlands, and MAW members, is mobilizing to oppose the expansion project.

How You Can Help:

• Sign the Petition: Join us in safeguarding the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve by signing the online petition.
• Participate in the Protest: Mark your calendar for a massive protest scheduled for October 19th in Urdaibai. Your presence and voice matter!
• Stay Informed: Visit the Guggenheim Urdaibai Stop website and follow updates to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and ways you can contribute to conservation efforts.

This is a critical moment for the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. Together, we can make a difference in protecting this invaluable wetland of international importance. Join us in standing up for nature and ensuring the preservation of this unique habitat. Your support is vital!

​​Court Halts Agricultural Use of Lake Marmara to Protect Biodiversity

Lake Marmara, a vital biodiversity area in Turkey’s Aegean Region, has won a significant legal victory. Recognized as a Wetland of National Importance, the lake supports diverse species and is listed among Turkey’s Important Bird Areas and Key Biodiversity Areas. Despite its ecological importance, the lake has suffered from poor water management and excessive agricultural use, leading to its desiccation.

In 2021, Doğa Derneği/BirdLife Türkiye and other organizations began campaigning against the misuse of the lake’s resources. The controversy escalated when a 2022 protocol permitted agricultural expansion into the lake basin by the General Directorate of Agricultural Enterprises (TİGEM), conflicting with national and international conservation laws. To support Doga, twenty-five NGOs and research institutions from the Mediterranean Alliance for Wetlands and BirdLife International partners came together to warn the Turkish government and relevant international authorities of the potential loss of this biodiversity haven of capital importance to the world through a Red Alert action.

Doğa Derneğ and other local environmentalists filed a lawsuit against this new protocol. The court decided to suspend the protocol after an expert opinion revealed that agricultural activities would prevent the lake from recovering its wetland characteristics and further harm local biodiversity. The expert’s findings emphasized that restoring water to the area could revive the lake’s ecological function.

This court ruling is a significant step toward restoring Lake Marmara. The court’s final judgment is expected to annul both the protocol and the wetland border revision, thus promoting efforts to replenish the lake and restore its natural state.