A new island is born! A secret islet has appeared off the coast of Venice

An interesting natural event is taking place in the Venice Lagoon. The islet of Bacan, which has appeared for short periods during the summer months for centuries, has now become a permanent island. While this situation offers a new beach opportunity for both locals and visitors, experts are concerned about the ecosystem of the region.

While the unique beauties and history of the Venice Lagoon have been the focus of tourists for centuries, a new island born in the region is drawing attention. This sand island, called Bacan, is on its way to becoming a permanent part of the lagoon and a new resting point for both locals and tourists.
Bacan was a sand island that rose from the waters of the lagoon in the summer and disappeared with the waves in the winter. However, after the MOSE flood barrier, built to protect Venice from floods in 2020, was put into operation, the island became permanent by gaining resistance against the waves.
Today, plants such as sea beans and reeds grow on the island, which is about 250 meters long and 10 meters wide. Experts said that this vegetation contributes to the solidification of the island by protecting the soil.
MOSE is a system that protects Venice from high waves coming from the Adriatic Sea. The barriers, raised in winter, prevent strong waves from reaching the lagoon. This helped to make the island permanent by preventing Bacan’s sands from washing away.
Engineer Giovanni Cecconi sees this development as an example of how human intervention can create a positive ecosystem in the lagoon. However, some experts warn about the effects of the lagoon on the fragile ecosystem. Professor Andrea D’Alpos of the University of Padova noted that the long-term viability of the island was uncertain.
D’Alpos also highlighted the negative impacts of the MOSE barrier on salt marshes, which play a critical role in carbon absorption and wave mitigation. However, the barrier could cause long-term damage by preventing sediment accumulation in these areas.
So while the new life in Bacan is good news for beach lovers, it could also be a sign of worrying changes in the future.
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