Many socio-economic factors and processes are linked to the ecosystems of the Baltic Sea. Political choices and economic activities are reflected in the state of the sea, and conditions in the sea also affect society and commerce in many ways.
Marine research is in many respects highly multidisciplinary. Socio-economic research in combination with findings from studies in the natural sciences can greatly help us to get a picture of how we must harmonise our various uses of the Baltic Sea and its resources to ensure developments are sustainable.
The agricultural policies of the countries around the Baltic Sea are particularly reflected in the state of the sea, and related impacts on fishing and conditions for tourism. Shipping and maritime safety can also greatly affect the marine environment – especially in terms of the potentially dramatic impacts of shipping accidents.
Research can help us to understand the linkages between policies and the state of the sea, and also enhance maritime safety. New fields of study are opening up in relation to the possible use of marine biological resources for food and energy production.
Such studies can also bring immediate benefit to society by reducing the risk of a serious oil spill, improving opportunities for public recreation, and enhancing the regulation of fisheries to safeguard the future availability of stocks.
