On the territory of the Berezhny karst cave (Sochi district), a long-standing dump of household and potentially toxic waste was discovered, posing a threat to underground slopes, aquifers, and ecosystems. The dump also contained a huge number of dead animals! All of this poisoned the karst waters and carried toxic substances into the aquifers.
We prepared official statements to government authorities. We also reached out to the head of the resort city of Sochi. Additionally, public attention was raised in order to achieve a solution to the problem!
The immediate response of the Sochi administration, as well as the Prosecutor’s Office and Rosprirodnadzor, made it possible to prevent further spread of the dump, and specialists began its removal. Confirmed by the Sochi National Park: the start of work on excavation and removal of waste; participation of the “Kuban-SPAS” rescue squad and national park employees.
Thus, we express our gratitude both to the government authorities and to the speleologists who discovered the dump and recorded the coordinates! We also express gratitude to civil society for participating in solving the problem. Special thanks to the “Kuban-SPAS” squad for their promptness and assistance to the reserve staff.
The initiative is successfully closed.
Closed on 01 September, 2025