Caspian Sea drying poses economic, social risks, warns Azerbaijan climate official

The declining water levels of the Caspian Sea could have serious consequences for local communities, according to Mukhtar Babayev, the President’s Climate Representative and Chair of COP29.

Speaking during a roundtable at Baku Climate Action Week, Babayev noted that over 100 models forecast the sea level, but only around 10% predict an increase, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

“The drying of the Caspian Sea will negatively affect the fishing industry, oil sector, logistics, port operations, and other areas,” he said.

Babayev warned that residents of the affected regions may lose their jobs and be forced to relocate to cities, increasing urban pressure. “In addition, winds will carry large amounts of dust and soil from the drying areas to surrounding regions. All of this will lead to negative consequences,” he added.

By Vugar Khalilov