A Chance for Endangered Species

The Polish government is planning ambitious measures — albeit on a larger scale — having decided to implement the „Green Shield East” project. The Ministry of National Defence, in cooperation with the Ministry of Climate and Environment, aims to carry out targeted rewetting, renaturalization and wetland restoration in the border zone. These efforts focus on Poland’s eastern flank — which also serves as the EU and NATO border with Belarus and Russia — covering strategic regions ranging from the Vistula Spit and the Suwałki Gap to the Bug River Valley. The primary objective is to introduce national defense elements designed to deter a potential adversary by slowing the movement of heavy military equipment; a potential side effect, however, is the creation of habitats favorable to native flora and fauna, offering new opportunities for the greater spotted eagle. Provided funding is secured, there is a chance to create wetlands that will benefit numerous species.