Search Results (262)

In response to the European Union’s revised Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive, which mandates enhanced monitoring and advanced treatment of micropollutants, this study was conducted. It took place within the Coastal Landscape Park (CLP), a Natura 2000 protected area in northern Poland. The focus was on the municipal wastewater treatment plant in Jastrzębia Góra, located in a region exposed to seasonal tourist pressure and discharging effluent into the Czarna Wda River. A total of 90 wastewater samples were collected during five monitoring campaigns (July, September 2021; February, May, July 2022) and analysed for 13 pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry with electrospray ionisation (UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS). The monitoring included both untreated (UTWW) and treated wastewater (TWW) to assess the PPCP removal efficiency and persistence. The highest concentrations in the treated wastewater were observed for metoprolol (up to 472.9 ng/L), diclofenac (up to 3030 ng/L), trimethoprim (up to 603.6 ng/L) and carbamazepine (up to 2221 ng/L). A risk quotient (RQ) analysis identified diclofenac and LI-CBZ as priority substances for monitoring. Multivariate analyses (PCA, HCA) revealed co-occurrence patterns and seasonal trends. The results underline the need for advanced treatment solutions and targeted monitoring, especially in sensitive coastal catchments with variable micropollutant presence. Full article

Ports in the Baltic Sea region play an integral role in advancing sustainable maritime practices in the area, due to their geographic interconnectedness, economic importance, and sensitivity to environmental challenges. While numerous port sustainability assessment methods exist, most of which are grounded in the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) metric, many tend to emphasise whether specific targets have been met, rather than evaluating port sustainability on a scalar basis. This study explores the sustainability strategies of seven selected ports in five Baltic Sea countries using an innovative qualitative evaluation framework developed by the Swedish Maritime Competence Centre (SMCC). The SMCC model integrates the three core pillars of sustainability-environmental, social, and economic dimensions, while incorporating energy efficiency and digitalisation as critical enablers of modern port operations. The findings reveal significant variation in sustainability performance among the selected ports, shaped by regional contexts, operational profiles, and prior engagement with sustainability initiatives. Also, the results bring into light the most common sustainable practices used in the ports, e.g., LED lightning, onshore power supply, and port information systems. Full article

This study assesses the wave energy potential and spectral variability in the Väinameri—a semi-sheltered, island-filtered basin on Estonia’s west coast—by combining six months of high-resolution in situ wave spectra with deep learning-enhanced satellite retrievals. Directional spectra were recorded at Rohuküla Harbor using a wave-following LainePoiss buoy from June to December 2024. In parallel, one-dimensional wave spectra were reconstructed from Sentinel-1 SAR imagery using a long short-term memory (LSTM) neural network trained on more than 71,000 collocations with NORA3 WAM hindcasts. Spectral pairs matched within a ±1 h window exhibited strong agreement in the dominant 0.2–0.4 Hz frequency band, while systematic underestimation at higher frequencies reflected both the radar resolution limits and the short-period, wind–sea-dominated nature of the Baltic Sea. Our results confirm that LSTM-enhanced SAR retrievals enable robust bulk and spectral wave characterizations in data-sparse nearshore regions, and offer a practical basis for the site evaluation, device tuning, and survivability testing of pilot-scale wave energy converters under both typical and storm-driven forcing conditions. Full article

The southern Baltic Sea is characterized by highly variable weather conditions, particularly in autumn and winter, when storms, strong westerly winds, and temporary sea ice formation disrupt maritime operations. This study presents a climatographic overview and evaluates key hydrometeorological factors that influence the safe and efficient use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as bunkering fuel in the region. The analysis draws on long-term meteorological and hydrological datasets (1971–2020), including satellite observations and in situ measurements. It identifies operational constraints, such as wind speed, wave height, visibility, and ice cover, and assesses their impact on LNG logistics and terminal functionality. Thresholds for safe operations are evaluated in accordance with IMO and ISO safety standards. An ice severity forecast for 2011–2030 was developed using the ECHAM5 global climate model under the A1B emission scenario, indicating potential seasonal risks to LNG operations. While baseline safety criteria are generally met, environmental variability in the region may still cause temporary disruptions. Findings underscore the need for resilient port infrastructure, including anti-icing systems, heated transfer equipment, and real-time environmental monitoring, to ensure operational continuity. Integrating weather forecasting into LNG logistics supports uninterrupted deliveries and contributes to EU goals for energy diversification and emissions reduction. The study concludes that strategic investments in LNG infrastructure—tailored to regional climatic conditions—can enhance energy security in the southern Baltic, provided environmental risks are systematically accounted for in operational planning. Full article

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the impact of Storm Laura, which was observed over Europe and the Baltic Sea on 12 March 2020, on the thermosphere–ionosphere system. The investigation of ionospheric disturbances caused by the meteorological storm was carried out using a combined modeling approach, incorporating the regional AtmoSym and the global GSM TIP models. This allowed for the consideration of acoustic and internal gravity waves (AWs and IGWs) generated by tropospheric convective sources and the investigation of wave-induced effects in both the neutral atmosphere and ionosphere. The simulation results show that, three hours after the activation of the additional heat source, an area of increased temperature exceeding 100 K above the background level formed over the meteorological storm region. This temperature change had a significant impact on the meridional component of the thermospheric wind and total electron content (TEC) variations. For example, meridional wind changes reached 80 m/s compared a the meteorologically quiet day, while TEC variations reached 1 TECu. Good agreement was obtained with experimental TEC maps from CODE (Center for Orbit Determination in Europe), MOSGIM (Moscow Global Ionospheric Map), and WD IZMIRAN (West Department of Institute of Terrestrial Magnetism, Ionosphere and Radio Wave Propagation Russian Academy of Sciences), which revealed a negative TEC value effect over the meteorological storm region. Full article

Ulva intestinalis holds promise for sustainable aquaculture in the Baltic Sea, but success has so far been limited by high environmental variability. This study examines how environmental factors influence sporogenesis, attachment, and growth of U. intestinalis in the low-salinity Baltic Sea. Optimal sporogenesis was observed at nutrient levels of 4–7 g/L, with peak zoospore release at 22–24 °C. Artificial substrates showed limited attachment success, as competing algae like Pylaiella littoralis and Cladophora glomerata often outperformed Ulva. Mesh cage cultivation demonstrated potential, achieving growth rates similar to controlled systems, though storm-induced turbidity lowered growth. These findings highlight the importance of tailored Baltic Sea cultivation strategies, focusing on nutrient, temperature, water stability, and competition management to enhance Ulva production. As the first pilot experiments in the region, they provide essential input for developing informed strategies that support more detailed trials and future scaled-up production. Full article

The development of offshore wind energy has emerged as a key driver of economic growth and energy transition in Europe, with the Baltic Sea region playing a crucial role in this transformation. This paper examines the impact of offshore wind farm (OWF) supply chains on regional economic development, focusing on the strategic role of ports in facilitating these operations. Particular emphasis is placed on Port Ustka, which has been identified as a potential logistics and service hub for offshore wind projects in Poland’s Exclusive Economic Zone. The study explores the integration of local ports into offshore wind supply chains and their contribution to industrial development, job creation, and infrastructure modernization. Through an analysis of infrastructure parameters, logistical capabilities, and economic impacts, the paper assesses the feasibility of Port Ustka as a service base for major offshore wind projects, such as Baltica 2 and 3. The findings highlight the importance of port infrastructure investments, supply chain optimization, and policy support in maximizing the economic benefits of offshore wind development. By evaluating the challenges and opportunities associated with offshore wind logistics, this paper provides strategic insights for policymakers, investors, and industry stakeholders. The research underscores the necessity of modernizing port facilities, improving transport connections, and fostering local supply chain participation to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of offshore wind operations in the Central Baltic Region. Full article

The agricultural sector plays one of the pivotal roles in fulfilling the objectives set forth by the EU Green Deal. However, the extensive use of synthetic fertilizers has contributed to nutrient over-enrichment in aquatic ecosystems, promoting eutrophication due to excess nitrogen inputs from fertilizers. This phenomenon is a key driver of rapid and excessive algal blooms in rivers, lakes, and seas. In this study, three globally cultivated crop species—oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.), common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and pea (Pisum sativum L.)—were selected for experimental analysis, including the assessment of biochemical parameters such as proline content, lipid peroxidation levels, hydrogen peroxide production, total phenol content, and antioxidant activity, which were evaluated to determine the potential of phytoplankton biomass as a substitute for synthetic fertilizers. Various quantities of lyophilized phytoplankton biomass, collected from the Curonian Lagoon, a biologically productive and ecologically sensitive brackish water body in the southeastern Baltic region, were incorporated into the growth substrates of the studied plants. The findings indicate that utilizing excess phytoplankton biomass can serve not only as a plant growth biostimulant but also as a sustainable alternative to synthetic fertilizers, thereby contributing to improved water quality and more environmentally responsible agricultural practices. Full article

The article explores the development of Baltic Sustainable Boating 2030 (BSB2030), a cross-border destination brand for the Baltic Sea Region. Based on stakeholder engagement from 2022–2024, including a branding workshop and preliminary market testing at BOOT Düsseldorf 2024, the study highlights how shared maritime identity and sustainability values can support transnational branding. The findings show that multi-level stakeholder involvement and values-based narratives strengthen regional appeal, yet the brand still lacks emotional resonance, clear messaging, and coherent governance. While BSB2030 successfully promotes eco-consciousness, regional diversity, and accessibility, it faces challenges related to long-term strategy, financing, and cross-border communication. Full article

In this study, we investigate the diversity and spatiotemporal distribution of gelatinous zooplankton (GZ) in the central Baltic Sea (coastal waters of Gotland and adjacent Eastern and Western Gotland Basins), a region characterised by low salinity and ecological sensitivity. Despite the Baltic Sea being the largest brackish water body globally, knowledge about its GZ, specifically, medusae and ctenophores, is limited. Our research synthesises the existing literature, open-access data, and local reports. Three to five GZ species occur within the studied area, with the common jellyfish Aurelia aurita dominating. Peak sightings of A. aurita happen between July and October, whereas the ctenophore Mertensia ovum and scyphozoan Cyanea capillata display sporadic occurrences. We identify notable gaps in understanding GZ phenology and food web impacts due to historical neglect and insufficient monitoring, particularly under low-salinity conditions (between 5 and 8), which restricts species richness. Jellyfish and ctenophores fall under the Essential Ocean Variable (EOV) “Zooplankton Biomass and Diversity” governed by the Global Ocean Observing System, UNESCO-IOC. EOVs are an approach for globally usable data and adhere to Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) data principles. Including EOVs in routine collection and reporting would significantly enhance regional and global understanding, contributing to a holistic ecosystem view. Thus, we advocate for global ocean observation frameworks to comprehensively monitor GZ populations and their ecological, biogeochemical, and socioeconomic roles. Our findings serve as a crucial step towards understanding the implications of climate change for GZ assemblages in the Baltic Sea, promoting a holistic approach to marine ecosystem management. Full article

Ports and waterways are integral components of the maritime transport system, facilitating global trade and logistics. Governments, ports, and service providers levy charges on vessels for the use of fairways, port access, and associated services. This study analyzes the port and fairway fee strategies of seven major Baltic Sea ports across four countries: Estonia (Tallinn and Sillamäe), Latvia (Riga and Ventspils), Finland (Helsinki and HaminaKotka), and Sweden (Stockholm). The analysis evaluates the application of general port pricing principles in these ports’ strategies. The findings reveal that port fees are predominantly value-based, with tariff rates varying by vessel type and cargo. However, no uniform structure exists for fairway fees. Notably, incorporating environmental components into fairway fee calculations emerges as a promising mechanism to promote sustainability in maritime transport. By incentivizing the adoption of environmentally friendly vessels through differentiated fee structures, ports and policymakers can accelerate the transition toward greener shipping practices. This study highlights the role of economic instruments in advancing environmental objectives and emphasizes the need for a harmonized, sustainability-driven approach to fairway and port pricing in the Baltic Sea region. Full article

The development of sustainable agriculture is critical in order to address the growing challenges of global food security while reducing environmental impact. This study focuses on the potential of Furcellaria lumbricalis, red algae found in the Baltic Sea, that can serve as a source of biostimulant. The research methodology included several consecutive steps combining qualitative and quantitative research methods: (1) an analysis of secondary data and literature review; (2) the production of algae digestate by anaerobic fermentation; (3) supervised laboratory experiments; (4) economic analysis; and (5) an assessment of the availability and prospects for use of algae biomass in the Baltic Sea region. The anaerobic fermentation process was used to produce algae digestate, the effectiveness of which was tested under controlled laboratory conditions. Experiments with basil (Ocimum basilicum) plants showed that 3% digestate concentrations significantly enhanced plant growth, increasing green mass by 52.7% to 85.4%. Economic analysis revealed the potential to increase gross profit for different crops in Latvian agriculture. The results indicate the potential of Furcellaria lumbricalis digestate as an effective and sustainable biostimulant that can contribute to the development of the green economy in the region. However, further research is needed to optimise production processes, explore long-term impacts on soil and ecosystems and conduct field trials on different crops under different climatic conditions. In addition, it is necessary to investigate precise mechanisms of action at the molecular level and develop standardised quality control processes for the production of biostimulants. Full article

The Baltic Sea is an intra-continental marginal sea that is vertically stratified with a strong halocline isolating the saline bottom layer from the brackish surface layer. The surface layer is eutrophic, and abiotic zones lacking oxygen are common in the deeper regions. While freshwater is constantly flowing into the North Sea, oxygen-rich bottom waters can only occasionally enter the Baltic Sea following a special sequence of transient weather conditions. These so-called Major Baltic Inflow events can be monitored via the sea level gradients between the Kattegat and the Western Baltic Sea. Innovative interferometric altimetry from the Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) mission gave us the first opportunity to directly observe the sea level signal associated with the inflow event in December 2023. Recent high-rate multi-mission nadir altimetry observations support the SWOT findings for scales larger than 50 km. The SWOT observations are compared to the simulations with the regional 3D HBMnoku ocean circulation model operated by the German Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH). The model explains more than 80% of the variance observed by SWOT and up to 90% of the variance observed by the nadir altimeters. However, the north–south gradients of the two datasets differ by about 10% of the overall gradient. Comparisons with tide gauges suggest possible model deficiencies on daily to sub-daily time scales. In addition, the SWOT data have many fine scale structures, such as eddies and fronts, which cannot be adequately modeled. Full article

Coastal erosion hotspots frequently emerge in the downdrift zones of ports situated along open littoral drift seashores, often necessitating coastal protection measures. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of nearshore nourishment in mitigating coastal erosion using the downdrift zone of the Klaipėda Port (Baltic Sea) as a case study. In 2022, 79,390 m³ of sand was discharged at 2.0–3.5 depths at this site, forming an artificial sandbar parallel to the shoreline. The dynamics of the nourishment deposits were monitored for two years through beach and nearshore morphometric measurements and beach sand lithological composition sampling. Monitoring data indicated that the majority of the sand from the artificial sandbar migrated towards the subaerial coast, with minor depth variations also observed at depths of 4.0–5.6 m. Minor accretion in the nearshore was observed in regions beyond the designated nourishment area. The nearshore nourishment has successfully stabilised the subaerial coast at the discharge site for over two years, with 21.1% of the nourished sand accumulating on the subaerial coast and the shoreline position advancing seaward by an average of 10 metres. About 69.4% of the nourished sand remained at the nourishment site between the shoreline and the offshore boundary of the artificial sandbar, while approximately 9.5% was transported to the adjacent coast beyond the nourishment area. Full article

Compound wind and precipitation extremes (CPWEs) pose significant threats to infrastructure, economies, the environment, and human lives. In this study, the recurrence, spatial distribution, intensity, and synoptic conditions leading to the formation of CPWEs were assessed in the eastern part of the Baltic Sea region. Using ERA5 reanalysis data, CPWEs were identified when both daily precipitation and maximum wind speed exceeded the 98th percentile thresholds on the same day at the same grid cell. Due to the proximity of the Baltic Sea and the influence of terrain, CPWEs were most frequent on the windward slopes of highlands in the western part of the investigation area. The most severe CPWEs occurred in the second half of summer and early September. Based on data from the Hess–Brezowsky synoptic classification catalogue and various synoptic datasets, the formation of CPWEs during the cold season (October–March) is associated with intense zonal (westerly) flow, while during the warm season (April–September), it is linked to the activity of southern-type cyclones. The number of CPWEs increased across all seasons, with the largest changes observed during the summer. However, the majority of changes are insignificant according to the Mann–Kendall test. Full article