Europe removed a record 603 dams and barriers across 21 countries in 2025, reconnecting thousands of kilometers of rivers.
The dismantling of aging structures is restoring fish migration routes and addressing climate-related water risks across the continent.
Rivers can transform rapidly after dam removal, with salmon returning within the first migration season in Finland's Hiitolanjoki River
AI-generated summary was reviewed by a CNN editor.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Call to Earth is a CNN editorial series committed to reporting on the environmental challenges facing our planet, together with the solutions. Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative has partnered with CNN to drive awareness and education around key sustainability issues and to inspire positive action.
