Kayaker highlights oxygen depletion crisis in Haderslev Fjord, Denmark

With the sun high in a nearly cloudless sky and calm waters, it would be a shame not to launch a kayak into the water. This is how Jesper Bach Dall, who moved to Haderslev nearly 30 years ago, feels about the current state of Haderslev Fjord. Reflecting on changes he’s observed, Dall notes that there used to be abundant fishing opportunities, particularly for trout in Little Belt. However, he now finds much less activity, even when venturing out to sea.

Dall, who also teaches, takes his students into nature, where they would previously see the seabed when kayaking a couple of kilometers out. Now, he explains, the water is simply dark. Throughout the upcoming month, Dall will spend time on the water participating in the Danish Nature Conservation Association’s nationwide event, “30 Fjords 30 Days.”

The area is experiencing significant oxygen depletion, a problem not limited to this particular fjord. The Danish Nature Conservation Association reports that last year witnessed the worst hypoxia in over two decades, with early-season assessments suggesting the situation may worsen this year. Measurements have revealed severe oxygen depletion in eight fjords and moderate depletion in two others, marking an increase from the previous year.

Hypoxia is driven by nitrogen runoff, spurring rapid algae growth that ultimately consumes the oxygen when the algae die. Environmental conditions continue to be concerning, with rising temperatures exacerbating the issue, particularly in regions like Southern Funen.

While policymakers strive to address these challenges, many experts worry that it may be too late to ensure a healthy marine environment by the EU’s 2027 deadline. Dall maintains a glimmer of hope that increased awareness could herald positive change for future generations.