What will Hungary look like in 2050

Atrophy of the countryside, extinction of native fauna, only a few species to remain, primitive conditions to live in – future research helps us see what to expect and gives us a chance to prepare. 

According to 24.hu, natural science research concerning the future is so rare; however, it would be vital to know what to expect – because in most cases, we can shape our destiny. András Báldi, scientific advisor of the Centre for Ecological Research in Hungary thinks that there would be a great need for more pieces of research concerning this issue, especially for practical reasons. Recognising this need, Környezeti Jövőkutatás – Magyarország 2050 (ecological future research of Hungary 2050) project has been launched, and the results are to be published soon. 

Based on this research, we cannot expect anything good. The countryside is likely to be gradually abandoned, only very few farms and rural settlements will remain. The biological diversity of the fauna will disappear, and only a few species will continue to exist in very primitive conditions – due to the effects of the accelerated climate change and human contribution.

This process has already started in the Netherlands. In one particular region of Hungary called Kiskunság, there are 124 different bee species identified, meanwhile in Holland, only 4. The same phenomenon can be observed concerning agricultural birds, reptiles, invertebrates, and the fauna of waters. 

For most of the people, this is not a visible phenomenon, though. It is because the EU protects the most remarkable species, e.g. bears, wolves, predator birds, certain plants etc. There are going to be particular islands, where reconstructed ecological systems can be preserved, and we will be able to show some of the remaining species for future generations as well. 

“There will be something to show at least”

– says the Báldi.

The most important species of the “wild economy” will also remain, e.g., doe, deer, fox, wild boar, pheasant etc. Most of the people will only know about the destruction if they draw their attention to it – otherwise, they will not recognise it. 

The stronger, invasive species will only be able to survive, and this way, they will change biodiversity. These particular species of mainly of foreign origin will destroy their rivals and create “monoculture” of flora and fauna. 

“This impoverishment of nature can be imagined as a process – kicking in hard in the end. It is like a person who gets influenza. For a longer period, they do not even know about the disease, later ignore the symptoms and continue to do their everyday activities until it literally topples them from their feet. The doctor only comes then…”

– adds Báldi.

Prevention is the interest of everyone, and after the release of the new study, the next task is to convince decision-makers to do something about the issue – concludes our expert. 

You can further read about a survey showing that Hungarians are most worried about the environment here. You can also learn about the effects of climate change in Hungary here.