New oil & gas extraction threatens Baltic waters

In July 2025, alarming news broke that new oil and gas drilling was planned  just 6 km offshore Świnoujście, Poland, in transboundary waters (Oder Estuary and Pomeranian Bay) and in the heart of NATURA 2000 protected areas, vital for nature, climate and local communities.


Oil and gas extraction in the Baltic Sea poses severe threats to its fragile ecosystems. Porpoises, seabirds such as the long-tailed duck, and fish like Baltic herring and sprat are highly vulnerable to degraded water quality from chemical use, leaks, potential accidents, and underwater noise from pile driving, ship traffic, and pipelines.
Already under immense pressure, these species and habitats would face even greater harm.


The impact goes far beyond the wildlife: imagine holiday beaches overshadowed by drilling rigs, seas filled with toxic leaks,
 an immediate danger to nature, our climate, and the livelihoods of people who depend on tourism and a clean Baltic Sea.


Add your voice to a growing European movement calling for a rig-free, safe Baltic!

SIGN THE PETITION!

OUR PETITION

In partnership with WeMove Europe

01

Stop the plans for oil and gas extraction in the Oder Estuary and the Pomeranian Bay,

violating climate,  environmental regulations and goals;

02

Ban any new oil and gas extraction across the Baltic Sea,

preventing deterioration and ensuring protection of Baltic marine ecosystem;

03

Ensure strong cross-border cooperation and communication amongst all involved states,

including sharing of environmental impact assessments and timely notifications of planned consultations or other measures.

Why is important to stop new oil & gas extraction in the Baltic Sea?

MARINE ECOSYSTEM


EU AND INTERNATIONAL COMMITMENTS

The prospected oil and gas deposits extend across the German-Polish border, with plans for up to eight drilling rigs. Despite the high risks, no valid and comprehensive environmental impact assessments have been carried out so far.


Such projects contradict the purpose of EU NATURA 2000 protected areas and would breach several EU and international commitments
*, as well as climate goals.


Indeed,
scientists warn that no new deposits should be developed if we are to keep global warming below 1.5°C. By moving forward, Poland could become dependent on fossil fuels with serious financial and climate consequences, undermining EU climate targets and international obligations.

Extra Resources

  • * EU and international commitments

    The project, if implemented, would breach the:

    • EU NATURA 2000 Protected Areas: European Commission, Natura 2000 Network
    • Helsinki Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Baltic Sea Area (1992)
    • EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008/56/EC)
    • EU Birds Directive (2009/147/EC)
    • EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC)
    • HELCOM Baltic Sea Action Plan (latest update 2021)


HUMAN WELL-BEING

Humans are directly affected by the health of the Baltic Sea. Oil and gas extraction, chemical leaks, and underwater noise not only threaten marine life but also endanger fisheries, tourism, and coastal communities. Contaminated fish and seafood can pose health risks, while habitat destruction reduces the abundance of species that local economies rely on.

Protecting the Baltic Sea is essential not just for wildlife, but for the people who depend on a clean, thriving marine environment for their livelihoods and well-being.


Add your voice to a growing European movement calling for a rig-free, safe Baltic!


Add your voice to a growing European movement calling for a rig-free, safe Baltic!

SIGN THE PETITION!

For more information:

 

CCB Secretariatsecretariat (at) ccb.se           


Petition on BUND Mecklenburg-vorpommern´s website.

 

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