The initiative is intended to give impetus to practical measures aimed at improving the state of the Baltic Sea. Possibly the most thoroughly studied sea on earth, the condition of the Baltic is generally considered to be alarming. The sea environment suffers not only from eutrophication caused by an excess of nutrients, but is also being stressed by a sharp growth in the maritime transport of oil and chemicals, as well as overall shipping traffic.

Researchers have demanded that countries bordering on the Baltic set priorities for protection measures. Many believe that cutting run-off from agriculture is the greatest challenge. In contrast, researchers see spending on expensive technologies to revive the seabed as an inefficient use of resources.

According to Bonsdorff, Professor in Marine Biology at Åbo Akademi, the solutions are to be found where the pollution comes from, not where the impacts are being felt, in the sea.