Ljubljana – The European Union is set to finance a project valued at 5.4 million euros, contributing three million euros to mitigate the adverse effects of cave visits. Additionally, the initiative aims to enhance visitor safety and promote awareness of the caves’ uniqueness and fragility, as stated by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Spatial Planning.
Caves serve as critical habitats for numerous endemic animal species, such as the human fish and the cave salamander, along with being vital for several endangered bat species in Europe. The ministry emphasized that these creatures are safeguarded under the Natura 2000 network.
Activities associated with cave visits can disrupt the microclimate, leading to increased temperatures and elevated carbon dioxide levels that threaten cave formations and ecosystems. The use of artificial lighting further stimulates algae growth, which adversely affects the underground environment and disturbs the natural ecosystem balance. The project aims to enhance the protection of these sensitive cave ecosystems, particularly given the often deteriorated state of existing cave infrastructure, which poses safety risks for visitors.
Slovenia is home to 14,849 registered caves, yet only 22 are organized for tourism and meet legal requirements regarding cave protection. This project encompasses 12 caves, representing over half of the tourist-accessible caves. (August 13)
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