Bern Convention

Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats

The association Sauvegarde Faune Sauvage has submitted a complaint regarding the Grand Est Region’s project to re-establish recreational navigation on the disused Rhône–Rhine Canal, between Artzenheim (Haut-Rhin) and Friesenheim (Bas-Rhin). The works, currently estimated at €46 million, are justified primarily on economic and tourism grounds. However, the complainants have raised serious concerns regarding the ecological impacts.

Environmental impact assessments have documented the presence of diverse habitats along the canal, including 78 bird species (46 protected), as well as several protected amphibians, reptiles, mammals (notably bats), insects, fish, molluscs, and heritage flora. The complainant maintains that the proposed works would result in the destruction or significant degradation of habitats of species protected under the Bern Convention, in particular, the Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis, Appendix II) and the Eurasian Beaver (Castor fiber, Appendix III), as well as key habitats for other aquatic and terrestrial species.

The project is divided into two phases. Opponents claim that this approach prevents a comprehensive assessment of cumulative impacts. Further, they argue that avoidance and mitigation measures are inadequate and will not sufficiently prevent disturbance to protected species, especially during sensitive periods. The complaint alleges violations of Articles 4, 6, and 7 of the Bern Convention, regarding the conservation of habitats and the protection of breeding/resting sites. Attempts at resolution before both local and national authorities have not led to satisfactory outcomes.

In October 2024, the Strasbourg Administrative Court suspended the environmental authorisation for Phase 1, citing concerns about the adequacy of the impact assessment and the absence of the required derogation for protected species. Following an appeal, the Conseil d’État lifted the suspension in July 2025, allowing the Region to resume works at its discretion. The French authorities have affirmed their commitment to ensuring that species protected under the Bern Convention will be fully considered throughout the authorisation process, in accordance with the French Environmental Code and the Convention’s requirements.  

 Key Timeline

• 2025 - Case registration

 Other countries possibly concerned

• N/A

 Other international organisations involved

• N/A

 Documents

Complaint form

Regular reports to the Bureau and/or Standing Committee

Please note that all reports received by a Party during one calendar year are included in one single report for that year. Some older reports are not available in digital form.

Other information / documents