Effects of the Nord Stream explosion: Methane reached Poland and threatens the environment

As a consequence of a series of dramatic explosions of Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines in September 2022, a immense amount of air has been released into the atmosphere. methane, which had serious ecological consequences, besides in Poland. investigation by scientists from the University of Gothenburg and the Voice of the Ocean Foundation reveals shocking results. It turns out that the concentration of methane in the Baltic waters was for a long time higher than normal, and its effects were felt even on the Polish coasts. What are the details of this study, and what truly happened after the explosions?

methane leaks: Scale and degree of disaster
As a consequence of the explosion, 3 of the 4 pipeline pipes were damaged, which were filled with methane at the time of the explosion. The full gas, most of it, got into the atmosphere. It is estimated that it has leaked from 443 to 486 1000 tonnes of methanewhich poses a immense threat to the environment. According to analyses, methane, which initially got out of the pipelines, remained partially below the sea surface and spread to a large part of the Baltic, contributing to an increase in the level of this gas in the water.

Methane in Poland: Effects of environmental disaster
As a consequence of the proliferation of methane, the level of this gas in the Baltic waters, especially in the regions of Poland, reached the level even in the first phase of the leak 1000 times higher than normal. Experts emphasize that in many areas, specified as the Gulf of Gdańsk, methane concentrations were importantly exceeded even A fewer months after the explosion. specified abnormal concentrations had serious consequences for the marine ecosystem.

Data show that over 14% of the Baltic Sea surface was exposed to methane concentrations which were at least five times higher than acceptable standards. This level of methane in water can lead to imbalances in the ecosystem, affecting flora and marine fauna.

Air and water pollution
The methane that got out of the damaged gas pipelines not only polluted the Baltic waters, but besides affected air quality. Although any methane was released into the atmosphere, the remainder of the gas that did not enter the air was spread through ocean currents, as well as under the influence of chemical reactions in the water.

Additionally, released methane contributed to increase in water temperature Baltic. According to researchers, contamination of water with methane can lead to acidification of oceans and thus affect the condition of marine organisms, including fish and aquatic plants. These changes besides have a long-term impact on the marine economy as a whole, including the fish sector.

Contaminants Scale: Ecosystem Impact Research
Voice of the Ocean experts who monitor the effects of a gas pipeline detonation emphasize that the effects of methane leakage will be felt for many years. Martin Mohrmanna investigator from the foundation, indicates that methane has spread to a large part of the confederate Baltic, from the Danish coast of Zealand to the west, to the Polish Gulf of Gdańsk to the east. As a result, not only marine ecosystems have been threatened, but besides the lives of coastal residents who can see changes in water quality.

Amendment of law and global action
For this reason, environmental organisations request immediate action at global level. Since explosions have taken place within global waters, many countries should cooperate to monitor and repair the effects of this phenomenon. Researchers are calling for stronger monitoring systems and fresh regulations to be implemented that can prevent akin disasters in the future.

What actions are being taken in Poland?
In Poland, after the Nord Stream gas pipeline explosion, the maritime authorities began monitoring the quality of the Baltic waters. Although the explosions took place over a year ago, measurements of methane levels in the Baltic waters are inactive being carried out. In the future, actions are besides planned to reduce the impact of methane on marine life. On the another hand, NGOs, specified as the Voice of the Ocean Foundation, are campaigning to rise public awareness and support actions to repair damage.

The future of the Baltic and another seas
Experts note that akin events may happen again if the energy infrastructure, including pipelines, is not adequately protected against attacks and damage. global standards for protecting gas infrastructure and monitoring greenhouse gas emissions request to be introduced.