Greenpeace launches red flag for fish to protest oxygen depletion

Greenpeace Denmark has launched a new ‘red swimming flag’ for fish to signal life-threatening conditions in Danish fjords and coastal waters. The initiative aims to draw attention to the dangers of oxygen depletion and nitrogen pollution, which cause fish, animals, and plants to die.

During an expedition in Lammefjorden near Holbæk, the organization recorded high levels of chlorophyll and algae growth caused by nitrogen and nutrients. These conditions can lead to severe oxygen depletion as soon as wind levels drop over the fjord. Greenpeace plans to continue expeditions across various Danish coastal areas to document the crisis using underwater drones and oxygen-measuring equipment.

Campaign leader Emil Bejer-Pedersen stated that the red flag serves as a warning to politicians that urgent action is required to restore the water environment, noting that current efforts to reduce nitrogen emissions from agriculture have been insufficient.