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ICPDR Danube Watch: Searching for heavy metals behind the Iron Gates

Vienna, 11 March 2008 - The first-ever `Joint Statement on Guiding Principles for the Development of Inland Navigation and Environmental Protection in the Danube River Basin´ was launched today. The interdisciplinary process to create the Joint Statement was led by the ICPDR, the Danube Commission on Navigation and the International Commission for the Sava River Basin.

Historically, the Danube and some of its tributaries have formed important trade routes across Europe. The harnessing of these rivers to facilitate navigation has radically changed their physical and ecological characteristics, while pollution from ships and boats is also a significant problem. In order to address this problem, the ICPDR is undertaking various activities.

Agriculture has long been a major source of income for many people living in the Danube River Basin. Today however, it is also a major source of pollutants – including fertilizers and pesticides and facing emerging issues like water scarcity and droughts.