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Concern has been growing in recent years over the steadily declining level of the Caspian Sea, the world’s largest inland body of water. The water level has fallen about 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in the past 30 years and is estimated to be dropping up to 30 centimeters (0.98 feet) a year.

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“The retreat of the coastline changes natural conditions, disrupts economic activity and creates new challenges for sustainable development,” said Rauf Hajiyev, deputy ecology minister of Azerbaijan.  The falling water levels are already impacting the lives of coastal populations and threatening the survival of marine life.

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Neighboring Russia points to climate change for the level drop, but Azerbaijan officials say a series of dams Russia built on the Volga River also has played a part. The river supplies 80% of the water entering the Caspian.

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For the maritime industry, Hajiyev said ships calling the port of Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, are facing difficulties maneuvering the port, forcing some to reduce cargo capacities.

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Read More at Hellenic Shipping News Worldwide