German Green Party proposes maritime noise reduction and naval action

The German Green Party is pushing for significant legislative action regarding maritime security and environmental protection in the North and Baltic Seas. Member of Parliament Linda Heitmann has introduced a motion calling on the federal government to reduce man-made underwater noise to ecologically tolerable minimums. The proposal targets noise from shipping, cable construction, and offshore wind installations, suggesting measures such as speed limit enforcement and subsidies for noise-reducing technologies like cavitation-resistant propellers.

Separately, Anton Hofreiter, Chairman of the Bundestag's Europe Committee, is calling for the deployment of the Bundeswehr to intercept Russia's 'shadow fleet' in the Baltic Sea. Hofreiter argues that many vessels in the fleet are operating illegally and pose security risks due to the presence of armed personnel and proximity to Russian warships. He is urging the Bundestag to pass a resolution to provide the political backing necessary for the German Navy to conduct boardings, noting that other nations like France and Belgium have already taken such actions.