In the shadows of our everyday landscapes lie vast, intricate networks of caves and karst systems, quietly playing a pivotal role in global sustainability. These subterranean environments, often overlooked, are now at the heart of a growing movement advocating for their recognition and protection. Leading this charge is Nadja Zupan Hajna, a researcher at the Karst Research Institute in Slovenia, who has published a compelling case for an International Day of Caves and Karst (IDCK) in the journal ‘Nature-Based Solutions’ (translated to English as ‘Nature-Based Solutions’).
Karst landscapes and cave systems are not just geological wonders; they are critical to the water security of nearly 20% of the global population. They act as natural water filters, storing and releasing water during dry seasons, and buffering floods. “Karst aquifers are nature’s own water management systems,” explains Zupan Hajna. “They are essential for climate resilience, yet they remain largely invisible in environmental governance.”
The threats to these systems are mounting. Land-use change, pollution, infrastructure development, and climate change are all taking a toll. “The lack of legal recognition and monitoring exacerbates these threats,” Zupan Hajna warns. “We need to bring caves and karst into the global environmental agenda.”
The International Union of Speleology (UIS) has taken a significant step in this direction, launching the initiative for an IDCK. The proposal has gained substantial traction, with over 70 national institutions, international organizations, and UNESCO site managers endorsing it. The support is growing, with governments and Indigenous nations increasingly recognizing the value of these subterranean environments.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. Karst systems can influence groundwater flow and storage, which are crucial for geothermal energy and other renewable energy sources. Understanding and protecting these systems can lead to more sustainable and efficient energy solutions.
The recognition of an IDCK could mainstream caves and karst into global environmental agendas, strengthening science–policy interfaces and advancing the protection of subterranean environments. This could lead to more effective water management strategies, better climate resilience, and the preservation of unique ecosystems.
As Zupan Hajna puts it, “This is not just about caves; it’s about our future. It’s about ensuring that these vital systems are protected and integrated into our sustainability efforts.” The journey towards this recognition is underway, and the potential impacts are far-reaching, shaping the future of environmental governance and sustainability.