Foto: FDJV The proposed bridge poses a threat to millions of migratory birds. Zoom In

A bridge to disaster between Germany and Denmark

15-12-2006

A proposed road bridge linking Denmark and Germany could have serious consequences for more than 90 millions birds, as well as marine life like seals and porpoises, according to the German BirdLife Partner NABU, who have launched an e-petition to raise the alarm.

Conservationists are concerned about the intention of the European Union, the Kingdom of Denmark and the Federal Republic of Germany to build a huge cable-stayed bridge linking the Isle of Fehmarn (GER) and Lolland (DK) – currently linked by a ferry service – across the Fehmarnbelt.

Plans show that most of the traffic between Central Europe and Scandinavia will be routed across this bridge – but this is also an area where huge numbers of migrating birds fly from Scandanavia to the Wadden Sea and further south.

The construction will affect one of Europe´s most important bird migration routes, used by up to 90 million migratory birds annually, including almost 20,000 raptors, around 300,000 Eider ducks, 50,000 – 80,000 Brent and Barnacle geese, together with 1,000 Divers. (from a study conducted by the Ornithologische Arbeitsgemeinschaft für (Ornithologist Working group) Schleswig-Holstein und Hamburg (OAG))

"It is vital a proper impact assessment is carried out before any further plans are made or improved.” —Ingo Ludwichowski, NABU spokesperson

“The current Feasibility study only gives limited information on the impact on migrating bird. So far, no assessment under the EU Habitats Directive has been done, even though the area in question lies within and very close to three Important Bird Areas, which are partly protected by EU law as Special Protection Areas. It is vital a proper impact assessment is carried out before any further plans are made or improved.” said Ingo Ludwichowski, NABU spokesperson.

“We are also concerned about the impact on endangered marine mammals such as the harbour porpoise and seals. Any construction works would severely impact populations, and the resulting sea flow changes would also harm marine fauna in the area.” he continued.

NABU also contends that the economic criteria for the project is unlikely to prove tenable. Recent experience with the construction of bridges and tunnels throughout Europe demonstrate that the refinancing of the capital investment (approximately 5,2 billion €) in such projects through toll fees is unlikely to be successful in the short and midterm if other transport alternatives are available. State subsidies will be a substantial burden for the public budget.

The e-petition is available in various languages - click here to sign