Compensatory measures
The planning of the Fehmarnbelt tunnel builds on the experience gained from the fixed links across the Storebælt and the Øresund. These show that negative environmental impacts can be reduced through careful planning and execution of construction work.
Unavoidable impacts will be compensated for. For example, areas where access roads, the tunnel element factory on the Danish side, the work harbours, etc. are being built will be replaced by new natural areas elsewhere.
On Lolland, the natural areas used for the construction and operation of the finished tunnel will be compensated for at least twice their size.
A number of measures have also been implemented on the German side. For example, compensation areas for various bird species have been created on the island of Fehmarn. In addition, eco-points have been purchased from various eco-accounts for nature conservation projects in Schleswig-Holstein.
Better protected nature
Our goal is not only to leave behind more nature but also better-quality nature. The newly established areas are designed to develop into protected natural habitats. Therefore, we closely monitor all initiatives to ensure that nature evolves in a sustainable direction.
A good example is the Lungholm lake, which we created in 2020 alongside a new natural area east of the construction site in Rødbyhavn. After just four years, in 2024, the natural area was registered as protected nature, with a diverse range of birds and protected plant species.
Examples of other initiatives:
- Over 600 hectares of new nature on the Danish and German sides
- 42 hectares of re-established stone reefs near Fehmarn
- 42 hectares of farmland converted to wetlands near Lidsø Gods (a farm on Lolland)
- 60 hectares nature belt near Rødby
- Over 40 new ponds on Lolland
- Compensatory measures for protected bird species on Fehmarn
- Eco-points acquired from various eco-accounts for nature conservation projects in Schleswig-Holstein
