The Czech Republic is moving forward with the controversial Danube-Oder-Elbe (DOE) waterway project despite strong opposition from environmental experts and civil society due to its questionable economic viability and significant environmental impacts. Critics highlight the potential destruction of valuable ecosystems, fertile lands, and biodiversity, raising concerns about the project’s true benefits. Moreover, the project’s reliance on EU funding conflicts with existing environmental regulations. As construction is set to begin in 2030, many argue that the project poses more risks than rewards for both the environment and affected communities.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Czech Republic greenlights controversial infrastructure | Infrastructure approved, not endorsed | Heightened resistance and environmental protections | Pressure from civil society and scientists |
| Danube-Oder-Elbe project faces severe opposition | Support to criticism and skepticism | Project potentially canceled or massively adjusted | Environmental sustainability advocacy |
| Dispute over canal’s economic viability | Overestimation of economic benefits | Shift towards alternative transportation methods | Recognition of ecological limits |
| Environmental degradation from construction | Ecological harm vs. industrial demand | Greater emphasis on ecological restoration post-project | Climate change impact awareness |
| Transboundary cooperation challenges sour plans | International collaboration strained | Potential abandonment of project due to political rifts | Geopolitical interests of involved nations |
| Funding dilemmas for the costly proposal | Economic reliance on EU funds questioned | Shift towards sustainable project financing | Increasing demand for sustainable investment |
| Moratorium leads to stalled local development | Development frozen due to project fear | Revitalization of local planning if project fails | Community and stakeholder frustration |