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Europe's Borders: A Threat to Wildlife
The construction of borders across Europe has had a largely overlooked and severe impact on wildlife. This article explores the impacts on animals, the effect on conservation efforts, and the potential solutions.
English
United States
PoliticsClimate ChangeEuropean UnionEnvironmentRefugees And MigrationConservationWildlifeBorders
Euronews GreenEuropean ParliamentUniversity Of NewcastleUkraine War Environmental Consequences Work Group
Eugene SimonovMatthew Hayward
- How do borders impact wildlife in Europe?
- The Polish-Belarusian border wall, part of a larger European border-building spree, significantly impacts wildlife. Animals are injured or killed by fences, migration patterns are disrupted, and habitat fragmentation leads to decreased biodiversity.
- How does habitat fragmentation affect animal populations?
- Habitat fragmentation, caused by borders and other human activity, dramatically reduces population size and biodiversity. Separating animal populations also limits their gene pool, making them more vulnerable to disease and climate change.
- What are some specific examples of negative impacts of border fences on animals?
- Increased human activity near borders, such as patrolling guards, further deters animals and limits their access to resources. This can lead to conflict with humans as animals encroach on farmland in search of food.
- What is the significance of the Polish-Belarusian border wall in relation to wildlife?
- The construction of the border wall through the Białowieża Forest, a crucial habitat for European bison, exemplifies the negative impact of borders on conservation efforts. The wall's construction bypassed normal environmental impact assessments, hindering research and cooperation.
- What are some potential solutions to mitigate the negative effects of borders on animals?
- While solutions like creating animal-friendly openings in fences exist, they're often impractical due to security concerns. A more effective approach involves addressing the underlying political issues driving migration and promoting more humane immigration policies.