Lake Baikal Coastal Protection Zone

The Lake Baikal Coastal Protection Zone is a protected area in Russia, established in 1987. It encompasses the lake and its surrounding environment, covering 34,000 square miles (88,000 square km). This zone was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996.

Lake Baikal itself is the world's oldest and deepest freshwater lake, holding about one-fifth of the planet's unfrozen surface fresh water. It is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to the lake, including the unique Baikal seal. The establishment of protected areas like the Coastal Protection Zone, along with nature reserves such as Barguzinsky and Baikalsky, aims to preserve this unique ecosystem. Threats to the lake include water pollution and climate change.1234