SeaBaltic

SeaBaltic is a term used to describe an integrated concept for the Baltic Sea region that combines environmental stewardship, maritime economy, and transboundary governance. It is not an official political entity, but a framework used in policy analysis, research agendas, and strategic planning.

Geographic scope and ecosystems: The concept covers the Baltic Sea and its coastal zones, spanning Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, and Sweden, with a focus on the brackish ecosystem and the connections among coastal and offshore waters.

Governance and policy: SeaBaltic emphasizes cross-border cooperation among Baltic states, EU institutions, and neighboring countries. It aligns with regional commitments under HELCOM and with the European Union's Maritime Policy, supporting data sharing, joint environmental management, and coordinated shipping safety standards.

Economy and environment: The framework addresses shipping, port operations, energy infrastructure including offshore wind, fisheries, and tourism, while prioritizing environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and nutrient load reduction to combat eutrophication.

Challenges and development: Key challenges include climate change, invasive species, habitat loss, and policy coordination across jurisdictions. The concept underlines integrated marine spatial planning, sustained monitoring, and stakeholder participation to balance economic activity with ecosystem health.

History and status: Since the early 2000s, SeaBaltic has appeared in academic papers and policy discussions as a visionary label for regional integration; it lacks a formalized governance body. See also Baltic Sea, HELCOM, and the European Union's Integrated Maritime Policy.