Baltic Sea seabed survey clears path for Polish nuclear plant

As part of the preparations for Poland’s first nuclear power plant, a major Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) campaign has been completed across more than 600 hectares of the Baltic Sea floor. The mission, conducted by Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe (PEJ), aimed to identify unexploded munitions, weapon remains, and metal objects that could obstruct geological surveys or future construction.

The investigation confirmed that the targeted area is safe for the project. However, the process also uncovered significant historical and archaeological treasures. Experts noted that the seabed contains valuable evidence of centuries of maritime trade and navigation, which are being preserved through careful analysis.

Broader scientific research into the Baltic Sea floor highlights the presence of significant wartime remnants, including thousands of shipwrecks. Estimates suggest the seabed holds approximately 500,000 tons of conventional ammunition and 40,000 tons of chemical ammunition. While experts debate the long-term ecological risks of corrosion and potential leaks, current findings suggest that many munitions remain in areas with low water movement, mitigating immediate threats.