New Publication Explores Danube–Black Sea Linkages and Transboundary Management

News & Media

We’re pleased to feature an insightful article on the newly released book, “The Danube River and The Western Black Sea Coast: Complex Transboundary Management,” which delves into the complex dynamics of the Danube River Basin and the Black Sea. The book, co-authored by leading experts in the field offers crucial perspectives on sustainable water management, environmental challenges, and the socio-ecological linkages between these vital regions.

Book cover
The cover of the newly released book, “The Danube River and The Western Black Sea Coast: Complex Transboundary Management”.

Dive into the intricate world of one of Europe's most significant ecosystems with the newly released book, “The Danube River and The Western Black Sea Coast: Complex Transboundary Management”. 

Edited by renowned experts Jürg Bloesch, Bernd Cyffka, Thomas Hein, Cristina Sandu, and Nike Sommerwerk, this volume is part of the prestigious Elsevier Series 'Ecohydrology from Catchment to Coast,' which explores the world's largest rivers.

This comprehensive volume delves into the Danube River Basin (DRB), the second-largest river in Europe, and its recipient, the Western Black Sea Coast (WBSC). It meticulously addresses the complex interplay between natural and societal processes, with a special focus on sturgeons as flagship species that exemplify the intricate linkages between the sea and the river.

Whether you are a scientist, water manager, politician, economist, nature conservationist, local stakeholder, or simply an interested member of the public, this book offers valuable insights and knowledge tailored to a diverse readership.

The book is thoughtfully structured with an insightful Introduction titled 'Theory and Practice – Science meets Management' and a comprehensive Summary with an Outlook titled 'Towards a sustainability approach for the socio-ecological system.' These sections frame the three main parts of the book, which are divided into 15 chapters. 

These chapters cover selected scientific aspects, key pressures and the implementation of water management, and visions for a sustainable future in the Danube River Basin (DRB) and the Western Black Sea Coast (WBSC).

Furthermore, the book includes several distinct case studies that vividly illustrate the existing environmental problems and their root causes. Moreover, it provides practical examples of how to improve the environmental situation in this region, making it a valuable resource for both theoretical understanding and practical application.

What sets this book apart from other publications on the Danube and Black Sea is its holistic approach. It seamlessly links the sea as a recipient with the river and bridges the gap between science and management. By addressing both scientific and social issues, it serves as an excellent supplement to the second edition of 'Rivers of Europe, Chapter 3: the Danube River Basin,' also published by Elsevier in 2022.

The book highlights several key takeaways:

  • Restoration is highly recommended, with the greatest potential for conservation lying in the Middle and Lower Danube, where structural alterations are minimal.
  • The role of the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River (ICPDR) is crucial for implementing environmental improvements within the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) and the EU Nature Restoration Regulation (NRR), which are key elements of the EU Biodiversity Strategy.
  • Achieving sustainable environmental protection requires a balanced approach, replacing the primacy of the economy with an equal share of ecology, social affairs, and economy

How to obtain the book:

For those interested in obtaining a copy of "The Danube River and The Western Black Sea Coast: Complex Transboundary Management," the book is available through major academic and scientific book retailers. You can find it on platforms that specialise in scholarly publications, such as the publisher's official website and other reputable online bookstores.

To explore purchasing options, you can visit the official Elsevier website or other trusted online retailers.