Tag: Species & habitats

Fisheries and environmental experts and authorities from the Baltic region start today a 2-day with key focus on a mature draft for a new HELCOM Recommendation on aquaculture which, once adopted, will help cultivate fish in a more balanced and environmentally sustainable way.  A handful of the most challenging pending issues in the draft Recommendation will be addressed by the Meeting. The Recommendation will also set the common, regional principles and understanding of the Best Available Technologies (BAT) and Best Environmental Practices (BEP) to be applied in the sector. Baltic herring. Photo: Riku Lumiaro/SYKEThis is the first fisheries meeting after modernization of HELCOM, signifying for this group a slightly sharper Terms of Reference as well as new name: HELCOM Group on Ecosystem-based Sustainable Fisheries aka .  The Meeting will also plan how to continue HELCOM work to address fishing practices which have a potential negative impact on conservation goals as well as for threatened or declining species and habitats especially in the coastal and marine protection.  Another major task for the Fish Group meeting is the work on data gaps that prevent adequately assessing human pressures on the ecosystems. The tasks related to such gaps, such as concerning physical loss and damage to the seafloor, will be conducted in cooperation with relevant bodies, thus contributing to HELCOM holistic assessments. The next major one, Holistic assessment of the status of and pressures on the marine environment of the Baltic Sea (HOLAS II) has already begun. The assessment will be indicator based and will cover, among others, the status of fish-stocks as well as all significant pressures on the Baltic Sea, including fisheries.  The Meeting will also discuss, among others, migratory fish species and cooperation required to meet the related targets set in the Baltic Sea Action Plan.  . All documents will be public after the Meeting * * * Note for editorsHELCOM Group on Ecosystem-based Sustainable Fisheries – – deals with fisheries in relation to the implementation of the ecosystem-based approach. Moreover, the group responds to the need to find solutions on how the sector could further contribute to reaching Good Environmental Status of the Baltic Sea by 2021. The Fish Group involves representatives from fisheries and environment authorities of the Baltic Sea countries, as well as EU, and HELCOM Observers and others as appropriate.  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 the marine environment of the Baltic Sea from all sources of pollution and to ensure safety of navigation in the region. Since 1974, HELCOM has been the governing body of the ‘Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Baltic Sea Area’, more commonly known as the Helsinki Convention.  * * * For further information, please contactDmitry Frank-KamenetskyProfessional SecretaryHELCOMTel: +358 40 630 9933Skype: helcom68E-mail: dmitry.frank-kamenetsky(at)helcom.fiJohanna LaurilaInformation SecretaryHELCOMTel: +358 40 523 8988Skype: helcom70E-mail: johanna.laurila(at)helcom.fi

The draft HELCOM Recommendation on aquaculture which, once adopted, will help cultivate fish in a more balanced way, is a key topic of a meeting starting today.

An online one-stop-shop – HELCOM – is now launched for all the coordinated monitoring of the Baltic marine environment.  The Manual is a web based compilation of what is monitored, where, when and how, enabling access to timely information on the state of the sea thus providing basis for the best decisions on environmental measures and policies. Moreover, the new Manual makes a link to HELCOM indicators developed to assess the progress towards Good Environmental Status as well as supports directly the reporting of Monitoring programmes to the EU, for the Contracting Parties also being EU member states.The new HELCOM Monitoring Manual translates the general principles of the HELCOM Monitoring and Assessment revised in 2013 into concrete specifications and requirements. Monitoring of the state of the environment and pressures on the environment are all incorporated into the Manual, to better accomplish the HELCOM requirement of regular assessment of the status of the Baltic Sea. The new product is a milestone in the regionally coordinated implementation of both HELCOM Baltic Sea Action Plan and the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive.  Structure of the Monitoring Manual. Click to enlargeThe Monitoring Manual provides information on 11 main monitoring programmes that are grouped according to 16 thematic programme topics, while the most detailed information is under 40 sub-programmes. The level of regional coordination currently varies between topics while it is the ambition to develop HELCOM coordinated monitoring for all programmes. By 2015, the Monitoring Manual will integrate existing HELCOM manuals and guidelines, for example HELCOM COMBINE, while at present they are still available in their current form.  Monitoring is a well-established function of
the , the founding legal treaty of HELCOM first
signed four decades ago. Coordinated monitoring of physical, chemical
and biological variables of the open sea of the Baltic Sea has been
carried out since 1979, while periodical environmental assessment
reports have been published since the 1980s. Revising the existing as well as establishing new monitoring is a continuous process, which started in 2014 and will continue in the upcoming years. More than a hundred experts have contributed to the HELCOM Monitoring Manual, including the EU co-funded project (2013-2015) managed through HELCOM Secretariat.  * * *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 the marine environment of the Baltic Sea from all sources of pollution and to ensure safety of navigation in the region. Since 1974, HELCOM has been the governing body of the ‘Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Baltic Sea Area’, more commonly known as the Helsinki Convention. * * *For further information, please contact:Ulla Li ZweifelProfessional SecretaryHELCOMTel. +358 46 850 9198Skype: helcom64E-mail: ullali.zweifel(at)helcom.fi Johanna LaurilaInformation SecretaryHELCOMTel: +358 40 523 8988Skype: helcom70E-mail: johanna.laurila(at)helcom.fi

The HELCOM Monitoring Manual is now launched – a web based compilation of what is monitored, where, when and how, enabling access to timely information on the state of the Baltic Sea.

New HELCOM main working groups are now decided on, to better meet with the present needs and challenges in the governments’ efforts to protect the Baltic marine environment, and to improve the work flow and overall effectiveness of handling the urgently important task. The decision taken by the HELCOM Heads of Delegation, during a ending this afternoon in Helsinki, Finland, completes the process of modernizing the Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission – HELCOM – by establishing an upgraded working structure for HELCOM.  “It is exciting to witness the new beginning for HELCOM and finalize the lengthy streamlining process, ending quite aptly during the 40th anniversary year of the Commission. The thorough journey has itself been rewarding and useful – the re-evaluation of HELCOM priorities, which reflect well the priorities of the Contracting Parties; the assessing of the many inter-linkages with other international frameworks; and making even better use of limited resources”, states HELCOM Chair Harry Liiv. The new main groups are designed to optimally match the HELCOM priorities. One of the new groups will address the pressures from human activities on land, including inputs of nutrients and hazardous substances, as well as marine litter and underwater noise. On the other hand, the development of a coherent holistic assessment of ecosystem health as well as ensuring an unbroken chain of monitoring, indicators and assessments will be under one umbrella group, which is, importantly, also dedicated for biodiversity protection and nature conservation as they remain a crucial part of HELCOM work.  Addressing maritime activities and response to pollution at sea and the shore continue as vital for HELCOM as before, not forgetting maritime spatial planning, sustainable agriculture practices and sustainable fisheries.  A special group GEAR will continue to ensure the coherent implementation of the ecosystem approach but also a harmonized approach between the HELCOM working groups.  * * *All HELCOM groups:Working Group related to reducing loads, emissions and anthropogenic dischargesThe new group will provide the necessary technical underpinning to the work on nutrient and hazardous substances inputs from diffuse sources and point sources on land, including to the follow-up of the implementation of the nutrient reduction scheme. It will focus on developing solutions to the policy-relevant questions and needs. The group will also have the coordination of marine litter and underwater noise in its portfolio. Working Group related to environmental assessments and nature protection The new subsidiary body will cover monitoring and assessment theme as well as nature conservation and biodiversity protection theme in HELCOM with a specific arrangement for its work, including meetings, in order to cater for the needs to efficiently cover both themes. Group on Sustainable Agricultural PracticesThe new group will deal with agriculture in relation to the implementation of the ecosystem-based approach and involve representatives from agriculture and environment authorities of the Baltic Sea countries, as well as EU and HELCOM Observers. It will provide a platform for agri-environmental policy measures and instruments and joint discussion on the Baltic agriculture in the context of the protection of the marine environment, in order to address nutrient inputs and emissions from agriculture. Group on Ecosystem based Sustainable FisheriesThe new group will deal with fisheries in relation to the implementation of the ecosystem-based approach. Moreover, the group will respond to the need to find solutions on how the sector could further contribute to reaching Good Environmental Status of the Baltic Sea by 2021. The group will involve representatives from fisheries and environment authorities of the Baltic Sea countries, as well as EU, and HELCOM Observers and others as appropriate. Group for the implementation of the ecosystem approach – GEARThe GEAR Group will work towards region-wide co-operation on all elements of national marine strategies, building both on national activities based on a legal framework and HELCOM’s work, such as HELCOM’s coordinated monitoring programmes, core indicators with good environmental status boundaries, thematic and integrated assessment reports, including assessment of pressures on the marine environment, as well as commonly agreed measures, with the view to facilitate adaptive management and strive for improved state of the Baltic Sea. Maritime groupThe Maritime group works to prevent any pollution from ships – including deliberate operational discharges as well as accidental pollution. The group works to ensure that adopted regulations are observed and enforced effectively and uniformly through close international co-operation; as well as to identify and promote actions to limit sea-based pollution while ensuring safe navigation. Response groupHELCOM Response Group works to ensure swift national and international response to maritime pollution incidents and that in case of an accident the right equipment is available and routines are in place to respond immediately in cooperation with neighbouring states. The Group also coordinates the aerial surveillance of maritime shipping routes to provide a complete picture of sea-based pollution around the Baltic, and to help identify suspected polluters.  HELCOM-VASAB working group on maritime spatial planningA joint co-chaired Working Group works to ensure cooperation among the Baltic Sea region countries for coherent regional Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) processes. The group, lead jointly with the Vision and Strategies around the Baltic Sea (VASAB), provides a forum for regional, trans-boundary and cross-sectoral dialogue. The HELCOM-VASAB MSP Working Group follows and examines as well as makes use of the outcomes and findings of regional project activities relevant to MSP.New Terms of Reference available soon in and  * * *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 the marine environment of the Baltic Sea from all sources of pollution and to ensure safety of navigation in the region. Since 1974, HELCOM has been the governing body of the ‘Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Baltic Sea Area’, more commonly known as the Helsinki Convention.                                        * * * For further information, please contact: Johanna Laurila Information Secretary HELCOM Tel: +358 40 523 8988 Skype: helcom70 E-mail: johanna.laurila(at)helcom.fi

New main working groups are now decided on, to better meet with the present needs and challenges in the governments’ efforts to protect the Baltic marine environment.

​​​​​A concise of all the finalized findings, data and recommendations is now released, presenting results of the on implementing the HELCOM Baltic Sea Action Plan (BSAP) in Russia. The EU-funded HELCOM wraps up after two years of work, with a focus on three priority areas of the HELCOM BSAP: eutrophication, hazardous substances, and biodiversity and nature protection. Within BASE, monitoring activities to support and measure the implementation progress within the abovementioned segments have also been carried out. The print is available at HELCOM Secretariat, and all the , as well as full reports, through the website.  Key outcomes and recommendations:EUTROPHICATION – Agriculture Outcome: The implementation of a manure handling plan for Kaliningrad region will reduce the entry of nutrients into the environment from animal/poultry manure – nitrogen by 20–30% and phosphorus by 15%, which is equal to 1,100 tonnes and 210 tonnes per year, respectively.Recommendation: Use all cattle and poultry manure as organic fertilizers in agriculture in Kaliningrad.EUTROPHICATION – Scattered settlementsOutcome: An estimation of the nutrient inputs from scattered settlements according to their different sizes as per HELCOM recommendations (mainly up to 300 persons and 300-2,000 persons).Recommendation: Establish guidelines on best available solutions and technologies for better waste water treatment of small settlements in Kaliningrad & Leningrad regions  BIODIVERSITY – Marine protected zoneOutcome: The application is ready for submission to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of Russia, with the aim of legal status granted for the extension of the protected zone between Lithuania and Russia. Such an extension will contribute to the ecological coherence of the marine protected areas’ network.Recommendation:  Establish the extension for marine protected zone in Curonian Spit BIODIVERSITY – Luga salmonOutcome: There is a decline observed in wild salmon population in the River Luga. The main reason for the decline of wild salmon is unreported catch, the report states.Recommendation: Support the survival of wild salmon in river Luga, Leningrad region, by establishing an effective management plan HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES – PharmaceuticalsOutcome: The currently employed waste water treatment processes are insufficient for the anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac and much ends up in the Baltic Sea with a probable negative effect on living organisms.Recommendation: Continue to research the pharmaceuticals in urban waste water treatment. HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES – MicroplasticsOutcome: The results of this study show that the WWTPs may operate as a point source of microplastic litter into the aquatic environment. However, the reduction of the microplastic load is also remarkable in scale. Recommendation: Investigate more the amount and types of microplastic litter in waste water of St. Petersburg HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES – Oil terminalOutcome: Explicit recommendations to the authorities in charge are included in the report along with the Environmental Management Plan. Through the implementation of the Environmental Management Plan a 98 % reduction in the present oil discharges to the River Pregolya is expected.Recommendation: Upgrade physical, chemical and biological waste water treatment processes, and install new oil pumping wells along the pier in the Kaliningrad port oil terminal HOT SPOTS – Hot Spots inventoryOutcome: An analysis and conclusions on the different conditions for removing the 12 Russian hot spots examined  from HELCOM’s list.Recommendation: Submit application for removal of three Russian sites from the HELCOM Hot Spot list HOT SPOTS – Vistula lagoon and Curonian lagoonOutcome: Multi-stakeholder transboundary regional meetings gathered together participants respresenting Lithuanian, Polish and Russian authorities, practitioners and researchers to discuss practical problems, results of different studies, possible solutions and directions of joint sustainable use of water resources in the Curonian and Vistula Lagoon regions. Recommendation: Speed up the work among relevant Russian authorities across sectors for developing a plan to improve the environmental status of both of the lagoons in cooperation with Poland and Lithuania. NUTRIENT MONITORING Outcome: Nutrient data of previously unmonitored tributaries of rivers Neva and Pregolya is available in HELCOM Data and Map ServiceRecommendation: Improve data collection concerning the actual nutrient load from point sources in Russian catchment, concerning river Neva and its tributaries; and elaborate a monthly monitoring scheme in Kaliningrad region.The studies confirm that more than a half of the total nutrient load to the Gulf of Finland, about 110 thousand tonnes per year, comes with River Neva. The new results also indicate that the share of St. Petersburg in pollution of River Neva is less than 10 %, and that more than three quarters of the nutrient load via Neva to the Gulf of Finland originates from Lake Ladoga. INDICATORS Outcome: 31 HELCOM-CORESET indicators were analysed by Russian experts in the Russian part of the Gulf of Finland. Tens of Russian experts and consultants were involved in the work,, which has been a major step forward in developing the experts’ network to participate in HELCOM’s activities related to the development and implementation of the indicators.Recommendation: Secure the active participation of Russia in the operationalization of HELCOM core indicators PUBLIC AWARENESSRecommendation: Ensure that the awareness and involvement of the general public is maintained on the necessary actions to restore the good environmental status of the Baltic Sea ​ >>* * *>>

Note for
editors:    (2012–2014) supports the implementation of the Baltic Sea Action Plan
() in Russia.  BASE addresses
altogether three priority areas of the HELCOM BSAP: eutrophication, hazardous
substances, and biodiversity and nature protection. Within BASE, monitoring
activities to support and measure the progress within the abovementioned
segments are also being carried out. The pilot ​projects (See: ) are
implemented by experts from Russia with the support of EU experts, while the
overall Project, funded by EU, is managed by the HELCOM Secretariat and St.
Petersburg Public Organization “Ecology and Business”.​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 the marine
environment of the Baltic Sea from all sources of pollution and to
ensure safety of navigation in the region. Since 1974, HELCOM has been
the governing body of the ‘Convention on the Protection of the Marine
Environment of the Baltic Sea Area’, more commonly known as the Helsinki
Convention.

>>* * *>>For more information, please contact>>Saija Vuola Project Manager HELCOM BASE Tel: +358 40 668 4657  Skype: helcom48 E-mail: saija.vuola(at)helcom.fi Johanna LaurilaInformation SecretaryHELCOMTel.  +358 40 523 8988Skype: helcom70E-mail: johanna.laurila(at)helcom.fi

A concise summary of all the findings, data and recommendations is now released and available in print, representing results of the 12 components of BASE Project.

​The River Luga is
the only river in the Russian part of the Baltic Sea in which naturally wild
salmon reproduce. According to a report published today by HELCOM BASE Project,
there is a decline observed in wild salmon population in the River Luga. The main reason for the decline of wild salmon is
unreported catch, the report states. Unreported catch is mainly occurring in
the lower courses of the river and close to major settlements. ‘Unreported
fishing’ includes illegal fishing (poaching) and overfishing for the needs of
the Luga h​atchery. Poaching and concealing catches by professional fishermen is
encouraged by the high market price of salmon and the lack of sufficient control
by law enforcement authorities. In
order to maintain and restore the small population of wild salmon in the River
Luga a management plan must be developed with strong involvement of all
responsible authorities.Photo Sergey Titov &
GosNIORKhRiver Luga was
identified as a key river by (2010) which looked at salmon population habitats in rivers
flowing to the Baltic Sea. Identifying habitats and drawing up management plans
in order to conserve threatened wild salmon population is one of the measures
all Baltic Sea countries have agreed to in
(BSAP) of 2007. The activities in the HELCOM BASE Project support Russia in
fulfilling the commitments made under the BSAP.The report on ‘’ was
completed in the framework of under
.—————-Note for editors: (2012–2014) supports the implementation of the Baltic
Sea Action Plan () in
Russia. BASE addresses altogether three priority areas of the HELCOM BSAP:
eutrophication, hazardous substances, and biodiversity and nature protection.
Within BASE, monitoring activities to support and measure the progress within
the abovementioned segments are also being carried out. The pilot projects
(See: components) are implemented by experts from Russia with the support of EU
experts, while the overall Project, funded by EU, is managed by the HELCOM
Secretariat and St. Petersburg Public Organization “Ecology and
Business”.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 the marine environment of the Baltic Sea from
all sources of pollution and to ensure safety of navigation in the region.
Since 1974, HELCOM has been the governing body of the ‘Convention on the
Protection of the Marine Environment of the Baltic Sea Area’, more commonly
known as the Helsinki Convention.* * *For further information, please contact:Marta PlichtaProject
ResearcherHELCOM BASETel: +358 40
669 3090 Skype: helcom55E-mail:
marta.plichta(at)helcom.fi

​Sergey RezvyiBASE Pilot project coordinatorBaltic Fund for Naturetel: +7 812 328-9620E-mail: sergey_rezvyi (at)bfn.org.ru

In order to restore the wild salmon population in the River Luga a management plan must be developed with strong involvement of all responsible authorities.

New Online Risk Assessment Tool Released for Alien Species Transfers via Ballast Water

An innovative online risk assessment tool for managing alien species transfers via the ballast water of commercial ships has been jointly released by HELCOM and OSPAR. The tool, which goes live today, was adopted by the coastal countries of the Baltic Sea and North-East Atlantic regions as part of the harmonized procedure on granting exemptions from ballast water treatment provisions under the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments (BWM Convention) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Key Features of the Tool
The tool includes:

• A database with observations of alien species and physical features in ports.
• A list of target alien species.
• A comprehensive catalog of marine and alien species observed in port surveys in the region.
• An agreed-upon risk assessment model.

These features will enable maritime authorities and shipowners to quickly identify shipping routes that may qualify for exemptions under the Ballast Water Management Convention (regulation B-3) and those that pose a high risk of alien species transfer.

Not only does the tool enhance environmental protection by identifying high-risk routes, but it also saves time and resources for both the shipping industry and maritime authorities by streamlining the decision-making process.

Development and Administration

The online tool is jointly administered by the HELCOM and OSPAR Secretariats. It was developed with funding from the HELCOM Aliens 2 project and Germany, with further advancements supported by the Joint Task Group on Ballast Water Management. During a recent seminar on digital tools for regulatory compliance, a guest speaker referenced industries where technological advancements have streamlined complex processes, such as platforms for online Sportwetten ohne Lugas Sperre. These platforms exemplify how innovative systems can operate efficiently within legal frameworks, ensuring user accessibility while maintaining regulatory standards. Similarly, this task group will oversee the implementation of the harmonized procedure and updates to the tool, ensuring it remains effective for managing ballast water and protecting marine ecosystems.

Background and Context
Shipping activity has steadily increased in the Baltic and North Seas over the last decade, reflecting growing cooperation and economic prosperity in the region. On average, 2,000 ships operate daily in the Baltic Sea, with maritime transport of goods in the region expected to double by 2017.

The harmonized procedure adopted by HELCOM and OSPAR supplements and refines the IMO G7 guidelines on granting exemptions under the Ballast Water Management Convention. The tool currently includes port sampling data from select Baltic Sea ports and will be updated with additional data from ongoing port sampling in the North-East Atlantic and Baltic regions.

The Joint Task Group on Ballast Water Exemptions comprises Contracting Parties from both HELCOM and OSPAR Conventions and includes official observers from the shipping and environmental sectors. It reports to the HELCOM Maritime Group and the OSPAR Environmental Impacts of Human Activities (EIHA) Committee.

HELCOM Maritime Group
The Maritime Group of HELCOM identifies and promotes actions to limit sea-based pollution and ensure safer navigation in the Baltic Sea. It also works to harmonize the enforcement and implementation of IMO’s international shipping regulations in alignment with the 1992 Helsinki Convention.

For More Information, Please Contact:

Hermanni Backer
Professional Secretary, HELCOM
Phone: +358 46 8509199
Skype: helcom02
Email: hermanni.backer@helcom.fi

Dr. Darius Campbell
Executive Secretary, OSPAR Commission
Phone: +44 20 7430 5200
Email: darius.campbell@ospar.org

A made in St. Petersburg, Russia, has found that the waste water
treatment process reduces effectively the amount of micro-sized plastics in
waste water. However, it is also possible that the waste water treatment plants
themselves constitute a point source of microplastic litter into the Baltic Sea
aquatic environment. is a growing concern; it harms the coastal and marine environments
ecologically, economically as well as socially.  Public and scientific interest in microplastic waste in marine
environment has increased considerably in recent years, but relatively little
is known about the sources of these fragments less than 5mm in size. The
EU-funded HELCOM commissioned the study from Helsinki Region Environmental Services
Authority () and the State
Unitary Enterprise “”. HSY has developed a microplastic sampling method targeted at
waste water and now applied in the joint study. One of the results of the research
project is the transfer of knowledge of the procedures and methodology for
studying microplastics in this context. Thanks to this successful cooperation
the Vodokanal of St. Petersburg will be able to continue microplastic research
independently.>>Annual global plastic production keeps increasing, and it is evaluated
that marine litter consists by 60–80 % of plastics, most of it being very small
and called microplastics. The smallest particles are especially problematic because they are very persistent; they
potentially transport harmful substances more efficiently than larger
particles; and they can be ingested actively by small organisms with rapid
metabolism and potentially accumulate in the food web.>>Despite the plastic litter being a growing concern, only
a few studies exist globally about the sources of microplastics, and also the
methods of sampling and analyzing lack standards. >>In the new report, the amount of microplastic was studied by sampling
the wastewater at the beginning of the purification process as well as during
and after the process. Water samples were filtered through different mesh-sized
filters using a specific filter device. 
All samples were inspected under a light microscope and microplastics
were identified and counted. The methodology has been successfully used in a
pilot study at Viikinmäki WWTP (in 2012 and 2013). >>Due to the preliminary status of the research project, the gained results
– the treatment process reducing effectively the amount of micro-sized litter
but a part of it also ending up in the environment – must be seen as indicative.
In order to evaluate the actual role of waste water treatment plants in the
total microplastic load of the marine environment, a more detailed
investigation is needed into the amount and types of microplastic litter in
wastewaters and in natural waters. Furthermore, extensive studies of other
possible sources are needed.  > * * *Note for editors: (2012–2014) supports
the implementation of the Baltic Sea Action Plan () in Russia. 
BASE addresses altogether three priority areas of the HELCOM BSAP:
eutrophication, hazardous substances, and biodiversity and nature protection.
Within BASE, monitoring activities to support and measure the progress within
the abovementioned segments are also being carried out. The pilot projects
(See: ) are implemented by experts from Russia with the support of EU experts,
while the overall Project, funded by EU, is managed by the HELCOM Secretariat
and St. Petersburg Public Organization “”. #160;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 the marine environment of the Baltic Sea from all sources of
pollution and to ensure safety of navigation in the region. Since 1974, HELCOM
has been the governing body of the ‘Convention on the Protection of the Marine
Environment of the Baltic Sea Area’, more commonly known as the Helsinki
Convention. #160;* * *For further information, please contact:Saija Vuola
Project Manager
HELCOM BASE
Tel: +358 40 668 4657 
Skype: helcom48
E-mail: saija.vuola(at)helcom.fi>>Mari
Heinonen>Process
Manager >Helsinki
Region Environmental Services Authority HSY>Tel.
+358 9 1561 3187>E-mail:
mari.heinonen(at)hsy.fi >>

Johanna Laurila
Information Secretary
HELCOM
Tel: +358 40 523 8988
Skype: helcom70
E-mail: johanna.laurila(at)helcom.fi

The results say that the treatment process reduces effectively the amount of micro-sized plastics in waste water while a part of it also ends up in the water environment.

Sustaining
the wild salmon population in Luga River, North-West Russia – having a significant impact in
preventing the decline of all the Baltic salmon – would be possible with better
management plan, developed further today in St. Petersburg, Russia. Respective
national authorities, experts
from the research community
and other local stakeholders are actively involved in weighing in possible scenarios based
on the fresh   of one of the pilots of the HELCOM BASE project. The protection efforts in Luga will feed into
the implementation of 2013 Ministerial commitments to further pursue conservation
goals for the Baltic salmon and sea trout. The Luga River has key importance since it is one of the few
remaining wild salmon rivers that runs into the Gulf of Finland ; besides it is
free of migration barriers for ascending salmon, hence allowing the fish to
reach the reproduction areas of the river. The Luga has recently been listed as
one of the priority rivers in need of conservation and restoration measures by (based on the outcome of ) and had also been listed previously as a priority salmon
river by the former International Baltic Sea Fishery Commission (IBSFC). An inventory of wild salmon and sea trout populations in
Luga River has been a key activity of the biodiversity
of the EU-funded BASE Project, carried out since May last year.  The main factors affecting the populations
include poaching, polluted spawning grounds, as well as intensive port
construction in the estuarine area of Luga River. An important feature of the
pilot has been to establish dialogue and to share information with the local
communities including fishermen, residents at large and organizations. ast October, the HELCOM Ministers to prioritize and intensify implementation of
HELCOM Baltic Sea Action Plan (BSAP) conservation goals for the Baltic salmon and sea trout to be met
by 2015. In order to promote and ensure that the recommendations of
BSAP, as well as of the from 2011 would materialize also in Russia, it is important
that specific action takes place in the Gulf of Finland catchment for the
restoration of rivers, such as the Luga.  * Note for editors: (2012–2014) supports the implementation of the Baltic
Sea Action Plan (BSAP) in Russia. BASE addresses altogether three priority
areas of the HELCOM BSAP: eutrophication, hazardous substances, and
biodiversity and nature protection. Within BASE, monitoring activities to
support and measure the progress within the abovementioned segments are also
being carried out. The pilot projects (See: )
are implemented by experts from Russia with the support of EU experts, while
the overall Project, funded by EU, is managed by the HELCOM Secretariat and St.
Petersburg Public Organization “”.
 he 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 the marine environment of the Baltic Sea from all sources of
pollution and to ensure safety of navigation in the region. Since 1974, HELCOM
has been the governing body of the ‘Convention on the Protection of the Marine
Environment of the Baltic Sea Area’, more commonly known as the Helsinki
Convention. * * *For
further information, please contact:Saija Vuola
Project Manager
HELCOM BASE
Tel: +358 40 668 4657
Skype: helcom48
E-mail: saija.vuola(@)helcom.fi
 Johanna
Laurila
Information Secretary
HELCOM
Tel: +358 40 523 8988
Skype: helcom70
E-mail: johanna.laurila(@)helcom.fi

Development of management plans for Luga River salmon, North-West Russia – having a major impact in preventing the decline of all the Baltic salmon – moves ahead today in St. Petersburg.

​Monitoring of radioactive substances in the Baltic Sea is one of the longest-lived, continuous activities of HELCOM, mainly thanks to the Expert Group on Monitoring of Radioactive Substances in the Baltic Sea (), adjourning its 3-day today in Hamburg, Germany. Confidence level of HELCOM data on radioactivity is considered high, since the 28-year-old Expert Group has enabled the long term collection of unbroken data series from all coastal countries which are the Contracting Parties of the Helsinki Convention.  Planning for the next thematic assessment of long-term changes in radioactivity in the Baltic Sea, covering years 2011–13, was the main topic of the Meeting, along with the review of Cs-137 related core indicator as well as several fresh scientific reports by the Contracting Parties and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The region’s first joint efforts concerning radioactivity started in early 1980s by a project under IAEA, while MORS Expert Group had its first meeting shortly before the Chernobyl accident – in 1986. “Generally there is a decreasing trend of concentrations of radionuclides in the Baltic Sea, after the steep rise caused by the Chernobyl accident. However, continuous monitoring of radioactive substances is still relevant due to many reasons, such as new nuclear facilities planned or under construction in several Baltic Sea states; decommissioning of old facilities; plans for storage of radioactive waste; and the fact that the Baltic is still one of the most polluted sea areas as regards radioactive contamination,” says Tarja Ikäheimonen, Chair of HELCOM MORS Expert Group. While radioactive substances occur naturally in the environment there are also man-made radioactive substances in the Baltic Sea, mainly due to nuclear weapon tests in 1950–80 and the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident in 1986, as well as routine operations of nuclear power plants and research reactors. The latest HELCOM thematic assessment of long-term changes in radioactivity in the Baltic Sea was released last year.  Meeting documents will be available at the Meeting Site ().HELCOM, 2013: Thematic assessment of long-term changes in radioactivity in the Baltic Sea, 2007-2010 () * * *Note for editorsThe Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission, usually referred to as , is an intergovernmental organisation of the nine Baltic Sea coastal countries and the European Union working to protect the marine environment of the Baltic Sea from all sources of pollution and to ensure safety of navigation in the region. Since 1974, HELCOM has been the governing body of the ‘Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Baltic Sea Area’, more commonly known as the Helsinki Convention. * * *For further information, please contact:Tarja IkäheimonenChair of HELCOM MORS Expert Group STUK – Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority, Finland Tel: +358 9 7598 8596 E-mail: tarja.ikaheimonen(@)stuk.fi Johanna Laurila Information Secretary HELCOM Tel: +358 40 523 8988 E-mail: johanna.laurila(@)helcom.fi

Baltic Sea is still one of the most polluted sea areas regarding radioactive contamination. HELCOM MORS Expert Group will focus its next assessment to cover years 2011-13.

The species, habitats and biotopes with the highest risk of extinction in the Baltic Sea will get better protection through a new, up-to-date Recommendation, as agreed by the 2013 HELCOM Ministerial , and the first draft plans are now discussed in the on-going Meeting of the Nature Protection and Biodiversity Group () in Gothenburg, Sweden. The , in its annual 4-day Meeting, also addresses a great number of other issues under the overall goal of the Baltic Sea Action Plan – a favourable status for the Baltic Sea biodiversity. HELCOM Sturgeon Rehabilitation aims to restore viable populations of the sturgeon through concrete conservation actions. Photo: Aimar Rakko/Wildlife EstoniaThe significant HELCOM Projects’ accomplishments last year on Red Lists of , and related will show the way to the EU level within the project “Establishment of a European Red List of Habitats”, which will be discussed in the Meeting. The main aim of the Project is to provide reliable and timely information on the status and trends of biodiversity across Europe, starting by selecting national biotope experts and reviewing the adaptability of the widely used international IUCN criteria. HELCOM will take the lead in the Baltic Sea.  A species already extinct from the region, the Baltic sturgeon, is under rescue through a recent initiative, the HELCOM Sturgeon Rehabilitation . The Group aims to restore viable populations of the sturgeon through concrete conservation actions, first by planning for a large scale project to be launched in 2015. Furthermore, progress on improving and restoring Baltic biodiversity will be inspected from several other angles such as the status of harbour porpoise and seals in the Baltic. Among the other issues in the Meeting agenda is the continued work on marine protected areas (MPAs) to follow up the newly adopted HELCOM Recommendation .The Meeting discussed the renewal of the HELCOM MPA database and the next assessment of ecological coherence of the MPA network. The Meeting will now follow up on the content of the national management plans and their effectiveness. As the HELCOM 2013 Copenhagen Ministerial Meeting also agreed to strive for active and regionally harmonized data collection, the HABITAT Meeting will discuss an initiative to set up a biodiversity data portal. Along with monitoring and indicators, this would greatly support the upcoming biodiversity assessment of the Baltic Sea. The Meeting is chaired by the Vice-Chair of HELCOM HABITAT, Ms. Penina Blankett, Finland.Documents for HELCOM HABITAT 16-2014 can be uploaded after the Meeting from the . * * *Note for editors:, which is one of the HELCOM Working Groups involving all the Baltic coastal states, works to conserve and protect biodiversity, species and habitats of the Baltic Sea. HABITAT promotes the sustainable use of living marine resources and aims to ensure that the environmental protection needs are duly considered in different activities that affect the marine environment, by using tools such as spatial planning and environmental impact assessments. 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 the marine environment of the Baltic Sea from all sources of pollution and to ensure safety of navigation in the region. Since 1974, HELCOM has been the governing body of the ‘Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Baltic Sea Area’, more commonly known as the Helsinki Convention. * * *For further information, please contact:Ulla Li Zweifel Professional Secretary – GEAR, HABITAT & MONAS HELCOM Tel. +358 46 850 9198  Skype: helcom64 E-mail: ullali.zweifel(@)helcom.fi Johanna Laurila Information Secretary HELCOM Tel: +358 40 523 8988 Skype: helcom70E-mail: johanna.laurila(@)helcom.fi

Species, habitats and biotopes with highest risk of extinction in the agenda of HELCOM Nature Protection and Biodiversity Group Meeting