17 September 2025
Web desk
Climate Change Threatens Caspian Sea as Water Levels Rapidly Decline
The world’s largest inland sea, the Caspian Sea, is shrinking at an alarming pace due to rising global temperatures and reduced river inflows, scientists warn. Researchers say the water level has already fallen significantly in the past two decades, exposing once-thriving coastal areas and threatening the livelihoods of millions.
Environmental experts highlight that the northern shores in Kazakhstan are witnessing wetlands turning into desert-like landscapes, while fishing ports and local communities are being cut off from the shoreline as it retreats by more than 20–30 kilometers in some areas. The falling water has also placed pressure on oil and gas infrastructure, forcing industries to adapt to the changing geography.
The decline is attributed to climate change-driven evaporation, reduced rainfall, and heavy diversion of rivers feeding the sea. If the trend continues, scientists warn the Caspian could reach historically low levels, putting unique ecosystems — including endangered sturgeon and Caspian seals — at severe risk.
Stretching across five countries — Kazakhstan, Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan — the Caspian Sea has long been a hub of biodiversity, trade, and energy resources. Experts say without urgent regional cooperation and stronger climate action, the ecological, economic, and social consequences could be irreversible
