Stories from Kiel · Germany

The black-green state government of Schleswig-Holstein has launched the 'Aktionsplan Ostseeschutz 2030' to protect the Baltic Sea. The initiative follows reports of declining fish stocks, specifically herring and dace. The Thünen Institute, a German federal research institution, found that perch populations in the Baltic Sea are suffering from water warming and oxygen depletion. Researchers also noted that perch have been overfished for decades. Scientists report the ecosystem is out of balance due to rising water temperatures and declining herring and cod populations. The initiative aims to protect the marine environment and local fish stocks. Scientists have repeatedly said the worsening conditions in the Baltic Sea. Local fishermen state the proposed zones cover primary fishing grounds used for 80% to 90% of their catch between December and June.

The tourism and gastronomy sectors in Schleswig-Holstein expect a busy long weekend in May. Lutz Frank, President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Schleswig-Holstein, noted that many guests are expected to arrive within three days.

The Zebra advisory center reported that people in Schleswig-Holstein were attacked an average of three times per week last year due to racist, antisemitic, or other right-wing motives. The center recorded approximately 160 acts of right-wing violence affecting around 240 people.

Holstein Kiel secured promotion to the Bundesliga following a victory against Eintracht on Saturday. Coach Tim Walter stated the goal was three points and noted the team achieved three consecutive wins. Walter described his current routine as spending most time at the training grounds or sleeping. Walter stated during a press conference that he focuses on training and rest rather than fan celebrations. The team's success is attributed to tactical variability and recent performance. Holstein Kiel secured their place in the league by defeating Braunschweig with a score of 2-0. Other match results included Bielefeld drawing 1-1 with Bochum, and Dresden winning 1-0 against Kaiserslautern.

The head of the Schleswig-Holstein State Employment Agency, Bircher, reported a noticeable relief in the regional labor market continuing into April. Approximately 7,600 job vacancies are currently available for applicants. However, around 7,100 applicants remain without training positions. This development is reportedly benefiting all demographic groups in the region.

German shipyards are experiencing a boom in naval construction orders following a policy shift by Chancellor Olaf Scholz in 2022. Oliver Burkard, CEO of TKMS in Kiel, stated that orders began arriving by 2024 and are coming from international clients.

A refinery must bear the costs for cleaning up a large-scale crude oil spill in the Nord-Ostsee-Kanal.

Schleswig-Holstein is planning to implement integrated emergency centers to better manage patient flow and relieve hospital emergency rooms. These centers would consist of a hospital emergency room, an on-call medical practice, and a primary assessment station. The assessment station would direct patients to the most appropriate facility. The Schleswig-Holstein Hospital Association welcomed the plan to improve patient steering but stated that the organization of the centers must be binding. The Schleswig-Holstein Ministry of Health also noted the goal is correct but many questions remain open.

New ICEL series trains have begun operating in Schleswig-Holstein to provide barrier-free access via floor-level entry. The trains are approximately 250 meters long and offer more than 560 seats per unit. Each train includes a large family area, a board bistro, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Three dedicated spaces for cyclists feature electrically adjustable tables. The railway operator intends to deploy these trains primarily on tourist routes to assist passengers with heavy luggage or strollers. They are designed for barrier-free boarding and include three seats for travelers with adjustable electric tables.

The state of Schleswig-Holstein plans to allocate 1.8 million Euros to combat digital sexual violence. Family Minister Thorey announced in Kiel that the funds will be used to expand consulting and support services within the state and enhance prevention efforts.