Protection of the Baltic Sea in View of Enlargement

Analüüs 01-02-2002

The Baltic Sea is the largest brackish-water area in the world and amongst the most polluted seas. The state of its marine habitat is a reflection of natural and human factors such as: the limited water exchange with adjacent seas, the formation of salinity and temperature barriers between surface and bottom water, the continuous pressure of pollution and overexploitation from human activities. The Baltic Sea Region has become one of the most dynamic regions in Europe with good perspectives for economic development, but as a very sensitive environment it needs special protection. One of the most exciting challenges of the enlargement is ensuring that the environmental protection in the new members will be at least as high as in the old members. As a shared water resource, the Baltic Sea will be one of the first beneficiaries of this challenge. This study attempts to show that co-operation between the Baltic States will have a positive impact on ensuring protection of the environment in the region.