The new HELCOM is now published as a part of the free
HELCOM data and map , operational
in its current form since 2010 and probably one of the globe’s largest hubs of
compiled regional spatial information on marine environment. With the
Biodiversity map service now open, HELCOM provides free access to some 500 map
layers in total, with maps ranging from biodiversity landscape features to information
of maritime traffic. he newest addition to the HELCOM map
service are maps on the distribution of and
produced in the HELCOM RED LIST project in 2013. The datasets make the data of
the Species Information and Biotope Information publically available for management purposes, including maritime spatial
planning.
The newly added Red List datasets provide distribution maps on red-listed biotopes (36), benthic invertebrates (59), fish species (58), bird species (32), and marine mammals (5). The preparation of datasets for online publishing has been supported by a project funded by the European Commission. According to HELCOM , all data stemming from monitoring and used in assessments is made publicly available. In case of the biodiversity datasets, the datasets are available for view and download from the as well as the thematic . To serve access to open spatial data, all map layers are available through open standard web mapping interfaces (OGC WMS), so the data can be used remotely without downloading and can be embedded in customized web applications. * * * Note for editors:The Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission, usually referred to as , is an intergovernmental organization of the nine Baltic Sea coastal countries and the European Union working to protect marine environment of the Baltic Sea from all sources of pollution, including operational and accidental pollution from ships and to ensure safety of navigation in the region. * * * For further information, please contact:Joni Kaitaranta Data Administrator HELCOM Tel: +358 46 850 9206 Skype: helcom37 E-mail: joni.kaitaranta(at)helcom.fiJohanna Laurila Information Secretary HELCOM Tel: +358 40 523 8988 Skype: helcom70 E-mail: johanna.laurila(at)helcom.fi
Almost 200 new map layers on the distribution of red-listed species and biotopes further improve HELCOM’s free data and map service, a large hub of spatial information on Baltic marine environment.
