Environmental Problems of the Baltic Sea Region

Abstract

The Baltic Sea and the Caspian Sea have very much in common. Firstly, both are shallow seas with brackish water and restricted water exchange, which makes them more sensitive to pollution. Secondly, the drainage areas of both seas are densely populated and heavily industrialized. Thus, the present process and rates of pollution constitute a threat to the people, flora and fauna of all the countries around these seas. Thirdly, the Baltic Sea and the Caspian Sea are also very productive seas with intensive fishing. Finally, both regions constitute fine examples of eco-geographical units. Thus, if we aspire to improve the environmental conditions of the Baltic and the Caspian, we have to do this in a coordinated manner that includes all countries in each of the drainage basins.