On the occasion of World Migratory Bird Day on May 13, EuroNatur, an internationally active nature conservation foundation, and its Albanian partner organization, PPNEA (Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania), are raising awareness about a grave danger to Europe’s migratory birds.
The Albanian government persists with the construction of an airport in the Narta Lagoon, posing a significant threat to this resting area that is internationally important for hundreds of thousands of waterbirds.
This lagoon, located on the largely unspoilt coastline where the Vjosa, one of Europe’s last unobstructed wild rivers, flows into the Adriatic, spans 42 square kilometers and serves as a crucial stopover site for bird migration along the Adriatic coast. It is also a vital feeding ground for endangered Dalmatian pelicans.
Despite the Narta Lagoon’s national and international protected status, Prime Minister Edi Rama is pressing ahead with the airport construction to promote tourism in the southern region. The plans have sparked massive protests from not only Albanian nature conservation organizations but also the Bern Convention, one of Europe’s most important conservation agreements for biodiversity protection.
During its Bureau meeting in March 2023, the Bern Convention vehemently criticized the proposed airport construction and highlighted the significance of the Vjosa National Park. It stressed that comprehensive protection can only be achieved by safeguarding the entire Vjosa Delta, including the site earmarked for the airport.
The Albanian authorities were strongly urged to halt the Vlora airport project within the Vjosa Delta.
Annette Spangenberg, Head of Nature Conservation at EuroNatur, asserts, “The unequivocal statements from the Bern Convention leave no room for doubt that construction on this illegal large-scale project must cease immediately. Prime Minister Edi Rama must take decisive action in response.”
The recent results from a two-week bird census conducted in April further underscore the ecological value of the Narta Lagoon. “In just 14 days, we identified over 110 different bird species, including endangered species like the wood sandpiper and the stone curlew,” reveals Zydjon Vorpsi from PPNEA.
“Considering that bird migration lasts approximately three months in spring, one can imagine the multitude of species and individuals relying on the Narta Lagoon as a crucial resting area. The operation of an airport here would undoubtedly put an end to this awe-inspiring spectacle,” adds the ornithologist.
Background Information
Adriatic Flyway: The “Adriatic Flyway” is a migratory route extensively used by waterbirds from Central, Northern, and Eastern Europe. This route traverses the Balkans, the Adriatic Sea, and Southern Italy before reaching North Africa. The Narta Lagoon on the Albanian coast stands as one of the most significant resting areas along this flyway.
World Migratory Bird Day is celebrated twice a year, in May and October, to emphasize the necessity for international collaboration in safeguarding migratory birds. The events include bird festivals, educational programs, and film screenings. This year’s theme, “Water,” succinctly encapsulates the essence of the day.
On March 15 of this year, the Vjosa River was officially declared a national park, marking a major success. However, the plans for constructing an airport in close proximity to the river estuary threaten this achievement. In collaboration with our Albanian partners, we stand united against this endeavor.
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