European Union

90 per cent of Germany’s rivers below EU environmental standards

Opposition politicians and pressure groups have demanded action after it emerged that the vast majority of Germany’s rivers and streams are in a bad ecological condition.

Transport

Giant cargo ships head to Hamburg after river vote

A project to deepen more than 130 kilometres of the River Elbe so giant cargo ships can reach Hamburg harbour is likely to go ahead after a crucial vote – although environmentalists have vowed to challenge the decision in court.

fishing

US crayfish invaders spreading plague in German rivers

An immigrant population of crayfish from the United States has invaded the waters of the northern German state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, threatening the local population with a crustacean plague.

sports

Surf's up as Munich to buy endless wave

Munich's surfing outlaws might soon have a legit wave to ride amid plans for the city to buy a popular Isar River break to assuage liability concerns.