16:00 18 January 2021
Consent for further construction of Nord Stream 2 suspended after complaints from environmentalists
Permission to immediately resume construction of the German section of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline across the Baltic Sea from Russia to Germany, issued by the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Office (BSH) on Friday, was suspended as a result of being challenged by two environmental organizations, BSH reported. It confirmed that it had received the relevant complaints from the German Environmental Aid (DUH) and the German Nature Conservation Union (Nabu) by email.
Friday's decision by BSH – against which the DUH and Nabu immediately declared their opposition – made it possible to immediately resume work on the section of the gas pipeline running through German waters, while the previous permit was only to apply from May.
The construction of the Russian-German gas pipeline is also strongly opposed by Poland, the Baltic states, and the USA. Critics of Nord Stream 2 indicate that the project would increase Europe's dependence on Russian gas and extend the Kremlin's influence over European politics. The project is supported by Germany, Austria, and several other EU countries.
(PAP)
