© GEOMAR Helmholtz-Zentrum für Ozeanforschung Kiel
MEKUN: Protecting the oceans
Munitions in the sea – A race against time!
Around 1.6 million tonnes of old munitions from the world wars lie on the seabed of the German North Sea and Baltic Sea, which are harmful to us and our environment. What was dumped back then is now coming back into focus: because the munitions in our seas affect the environment, shipping, coastal protection and the future of marine utilisation.
The results of decades of research show us that some of the explosives from mines, bombs and grenades are already lying on the seabed outside their rusted-through ammunition cases. Many of the contaminated sites release pollutants or are located in areas that are important for shipping, offshore wind energy, fishing and tourism.
The research results also show that our marine environment is increasingly suffering from the release of explosives into the water. The harmful toxins can now be clearly detected in fish and mussels. This means that the pollutants can also enter our food chain. At present, the concentrations are still very low and pose no risk to human health. Fish and other seafood can still be eaten in normal quantities.
Research is well advanced, modern technologies are enabling new methods of munitions disposal. With the immediate action programme for the removal of old munitions in the North Sea and Baltic Sea, the German government is tackling the recovery of dumped munitions for the first time anywhere in the world. Initial results have already shown the challenges that need to be overcome. As part of this programme, a special industrial facility will be built from 2027, which will then help to safely dispose of the munitions from the seas.
Since last year, there has been invented a centre in Schleswig-Holstein that deals with dumped munitions in the marine environment: MUNIMAR, a centre set up by the Ministry for Energy Transition, Climate Protection, Environment and Nature, GEOMAR and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce. The aim is to strengthen co-operation between authorities, science and industry in order to jointly tackle the challenges posed by dumped munitions. The centre aims to establish a large network that works beyond national borders to find solutions for the disposal of munitions in our seas.
Host City Local Partner
The Ocean Race Europe 2025
As part of the Ocean Race in Kiel, an exhibition stand will provide information on the topic of munitions in the sea. Here, visitors can find out about the current state of research, ongoing clearance projects and technical and political solutions. They will have the opportunity to find out more about:
• What types of munitions are still lying on the seabed
• How old munitions can be recognised and recovered
• The environmental impact of rusting munitions
• What political and social initiatives have already been launched
Visitors can gain exciting insights with illustrative models and interactive maps - regardless of whether they are interested in science and environmental protection or are simply curious about the topic.
Come and see us!
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