These Robots Are Recovering Dumped Explosives From the Baltic Sea
1 min read
Summary
Specialized teams are working in the Bay of Lübeck, off the north German coast, clearing seafloor munitions dumped there after WWII.
Teams are using underwater vehicles with cameras, lights and sensors to explore the seafloor for explosives, which are then identified and packaged for disposal.
The clean-up is focused on conventional and chemical weapons that were hastily dumped by the Allies after the war, as well as weapons dumped by the Nazis during the conflict.
The explosives, which are slowly degrading and leaking toxins, pose an increasing threat to marine life and ecosystems in the Baltic Sea.
Currently technology is being tested that could make the process of locating and disposing of the munitions more efficient and economical, including the use of machine learning, robotic arms and floating disposal facilities.
While the clean-up has started, the process will be dependent on further investment and government support going forward.
There is significant scope for work elsewhere, with the Bahamas the latest country to request help to dispose of dumped munitions.