After a research expedition in the Baltic Sea, Oceana published a report, ‘Conservation proposals for ecologically important areas in the Baltic Sea’, in which nine new Baltic Sea Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are identified. The new MPAs include offshore waters and host habitats, communities and species, which are not adequately covered under the existing system of MPAs in the Baltic Sea.
Oceana’s proposals come at a time where fish stocks, and their ecosystems, in the Baltic Sea are in a vulnerable position. Fish stocks are most significantly affected by commercial fishing, especially bottom trawl fisheries. Advanced eutrophication and pollution compounds the problem, resulting in poor reproduction and high levels of toxins in some species. Moreover, future climate change effects could further deteriorate the biodiversity of the Baltic Sea, including the spawning conditions for several species, such as Baltic cod.
Despite political commitments to secure the health of the Baltic Sea, the necessary policies have not followed.
During the two-month expedition, Oceana explored parts of the Baltic Sea, which have not been studied before—such as the colonies of sponges and coral gardens in the Kattegat and the Sound region of the Baltic Sea—but also more familiar areas, both, inside and outside of the current MPA network. Based on Oceana’s research results, it is clear that ‘the habitats inside MPAs are better protected from many human disturbances’, said Anne Schroeer, Oceana Baltic Sea Project Manager. Some of the methodologies involved in the expedition included the use of a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and scuba divers for underwater visual recordings, and sediment sampling .
Presently, only 12% of the Baltic Sea is protected by way of Marine Protected Areas. Oceana believes this number should increase to 30% to ensure effective coverage; however, actions should not be limited to legal protection measures only. The implementation of effective fisheries management practices should be applied and properly executed, which, at least in part, could be remedied by an effective—and now ongoing—reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). Anne Schroeer of Oceana stated that, ‘coupled with effective management of human activities, the establishment of MPAs is an important mechanism to support a healthier marine environment and as a consequence, sustainable fisheries’.
One of the project funders is a well-known Swedish entrepreneur, Nicklas Zennström, also the founder of Zennström Philantrophies. On 13 December in 2011– at Oceana’s Press Conference event in Stockholm announcing the release of the report– Zennström explained he was involved in the project to protect the beauty of the Baltic Sea he grew up with, which now, at least below the surface, is quickly disappearing. He added that with its special qualities, the Baltic Sea needs conservation and protection measures now.
For information on the report and more, please see the information below.