Gas extraction in the Wadden Sea? This is met with resistance from climate activists and a prominent representative of the governing coalition.
More than 100 climate activists protested in front of the Federal Ministry of Economics in Berlin against the planned gas drilling off the North Sea island of Borkum. They held a long red textile ribbon in front of them, which was supposed to represent the red line that must not be crossed. Luisa Neubauer, organizer of Fridays for Future, led the demonstration to the ministry.
Previously, Green Party leader Ricarda Lang had also spoken out against the extraction of natural gas from a field beneath the seabed off Borkum.
The drilling would be “a major threat to our environment,” Lang told the German Press Agency in Berlin. It contradicts Germany’s climate goals. “That is why there must be no gas drilling off Borkum. We stand alongside the many people who are fighting to preserve our natural heritage and are taking to the streets.”
Climate activists see Wadden Sea in danger
The drilling would disrupt the delicate balance of the Wadden Sea and endanger the livelihood of the entire region, explained Lang. This could ultimately mean the loss of UNESCO World Heritage status. “It would be irresponsible to give up protecting our environment and complying with climate targets for fossil projects that make only a minimal contribution to our energy security.”
On Wednesday, the responsible Lower Saxony state office granted the Dutch energy company One-Dyas an 18-year permit for the controversial drilling. The drilling is to extend from the Netherlands under the seabed into German territory near the Wadden Sea National Park. However, an agreement between Germany and the Netherlands is still required for gas extraction – which the federal government would have to conclude.
Economics Minister Robert Habeck (Greens) does not want to do this before courts have decided on lawsuits against the plans. Environmental Aid announced further legal action against the gas project.
Source: Stern
