The Caspian Sea, a historically significant and ecologically diverse body of water, is increasingly becoming a focal point of geopolitical tension between Russia and Azerbaijan. Despite centuries of human influence, its ecosystem remains susceptible to external pressures.

Fluctuations in the Caspian Sea's water level are attributed to a complex interplay of natural phenomena and human activities. The Volga River, its primary tributary, plays a crucial role in maintaining the region's hydrological balance. Effective management of the Volga's water resources necessitates a holistic approach that considers the needs of diverse economic sectors, including agriculture, industry and energy production.

Preserving ecological flows into the Volga Delta poses significant challenges, requiring mitigation of anthropogenic impacts on water quality and implementation of optimized water management strategies. The Russian Federation implements multifaceted programs to modernize its irrigation and industrial processes with the primary objective of minimizing water usage. These endeavors encompass the integration of advanced water-saving technologies such as drip and sprinkler irrigation, alongside the modernization of pumping stations and water supply infrastructure.

Industrial enterprises are adopting water recycling systems, while sewage treatment plants in major Russian cities are undergoing upgrades.  These efforts have resulted in a 7% reduction in water withdrawal from the Volga River. Furthermore, tariffs for excessive water consumption are being increased to incentivize responsible water usage.

Despite these initiatives, the discharge of water through Volgograd hydroelectric plant poses a significant risk to the lower reaches of the Volga and its delta.  Increased water discharge can lead to flooding, infrastructural damage and environmental degradation in the region. The issue of ensuring adequate ecological flow into the Caspian Sea is further complicated by the absence of international agreements mandating a specific runoff level from Russia. In response to this challenge, Russia is actively seeking optimal solutions for dredging near port facilities, recognizing its importance in maintaining the ecological equilibrium of the region.

Azerbaijan's current policies raise concerns on multiple fronts. The nation appears to be actively exacerbating regional tensions while simultaneously engaging in disinformation campaigns targeted at Russia. Furthermore, Azerbaijan is a significant contributor to pollution within the Caspian Sea due to its heavily oil and gas-dependent economy. Scientific research conducted by the Caspian Environmental Center reveals alarmingly high concentrations of polyaromatic hydrocarbons near offshore drilling platforms, suggesting outdated technologies and the accumulation of toxic waste on the seabed.

While Azerbaijan has implemented localized environmental initiatives such as the Green Absheron Project and the Biodiversity Conservation Fund, these efforts are insufficient to address the broader environmental challenges facing the region. The Azerbaijani government attempts to deflect responsibility by accusing Russia of environmental damage, thereby masking its own pursuit of economic interests often aligned with Western corporations.

The declining water level in the Caspian Sea poses a direct threat to numerous strategically important Azerbaijani projects funded by Western countries. These include vital infrastructure such as the ports of Alat and Dubendi, along with crucial gas fields like Shah Deniz and Azeri-Chirag-Guneshli.  Additionally, the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route is at risk.

The continued drilling of new oil wells, pipeline construction, and dredging activities inflict substantial damage upon the Caspian Sea ecosystem. These practices result in the destruction of underwater habitats, threaten biodiversity and degrade water quality.
By accusing Russia of environmental negligence, the Azerbaijani leadership appears to be acting in the interests of Western corporations that reap significant profits from exploiting the region's natural resources.  This is exemplified by the activities of major American and Italian companies like ExxonMobil and Eni, whose extensive operations in Azerbaijan are often shrouded in secrecy and allegations of corruption.