Sea

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Sea

Sea sickness does not pester only a human. When sea gets sick, many other living creatures will suffer. Finally, it will touch upon us. Sea seems boundless and bottomless, its amount of water endless. However, it is obvious that people’s inconsiderate activity will influence the health of sea. The Baltic Sea, washing the shores of Estonia, is currently believed to be the most polluted seas in the world.

About the Baltic Sea

The Baltic is the youngest sea on our planet, emerging from the retiring ice masses only some 10-15,000 years ago. But there are 2 other factors which, when combined, make this sea unique to this planet.

Due to its specific geographical, climatic and oceanographic features, the Baltic Sea is highly sensitive to human activities which are taking place both at sea and in its catchment area, which is home to some 85 million people.

Today the Baltic Sea is one of the world's most threatened marine ecosystems. Find out more about this special place and our work to protect the Baltic Sea.

Fast Facts

* The Baltic Sea is located in Northern Europe. It is bounded by the Scandinavian Peninsula, the mainland of Europe, and the Danish islands.
* Countries: 9 states surround the Baltic Sea including 8 EU members (Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Poland, Latvia, Estonia, Russia & Lithuania)
* Coastal population: 15 million
* Total sea area: 404,354 km²
* Average depth: 53 metres
* Habitat Type: Temperate Shelf and Seas
* Commercial fish species: Central & SW Baltic: cod, herring, sprat and salmon. N Baltic: pike, perch, white fish and herring.
* Climate: prolonged cold and dark winters, mild summers with almost 24hr day light
* Industrial threats: one of the busiest maritime transport routes in the world, carrying 15% of the world's maritime transport

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During the year of 2013 Estonian Fund for Nature Baltic Sea protection activities are sponsored by Ecoprint.