BALTIC COMPASS STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
The strategic objective of Baltic COMPASS is to contribute in reducing eutrophication (nutrient over-enrichment) of the Baltic Sea through fostering win-win solutions for agriculture, municipal and environmental sectors, based on problem definitions which are relevant for stakeholders within the whole drainage area.
Baltic Compass strategic objective more specifically:
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Strengthen the transnational and cross-sectorial dialogues and regional BSR identity, especially across west-east divide;
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Enhance utilization of best practices and interactive ICT decision support tools;
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Accelerate investments in best available environmental technologies and solutions;
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Provide new perspectives for agriculture run-off assessments in a spatial planning context;
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Strengthen policy formulation and implementation through stakeholder involvement and adaptation;
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Contribute to shaping future cost- and eco-efficient agri-environment support schemes; and
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Promote BSR as a pilot region for innovative solutions related to combating eutrophication in a global context.
Specific Problem to be addressed
Landuse for agricultural purposes in the BSR is expected to be intensified following climate change and increasing global demands for food and bioenergy. This might cause significant additional pressures on the sensitive marine ecosystems of the Baltic Sea Region. In order to meet those challenges the nitrogen and phosphorous targeted solutions needs to be coupled with more systemic solutions and technologies in the context of economic sustainability and livelihood of the society. The focus on nitrogen and phosphorous loads is essential, but at the same time insufficient as an instrument for change among majority of BSR stakeholders. Actions must more strongly be linked with the sustainability of local resources, rural development, landscapes, biosecurity, climate and energy solutions.
Such solutions and concepts are poorly shared within the region. The competence, technologies, solutions and science is available but they are unevenly distributed and harmonized between regions, and moreover, between the west and the east. This is the specific transnational problem and challenge addressed by Baltic COMPASS. The project will be framed within a selective approach having a strong focus on results that provides added value to ongoing actions and policies. Baltic COMPASS incorporates the objectives of the EU Lisbon strategy, EU Marine Strategy Directive and the upcoming EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region, especially in combining environmental and economic sustainability.
Landuse for agricultural purposes in the BSR is expected to be intensified following climate change and increasing global demands for food and bioenergy. This might cause significant additional pressures on the sensitive marine ecosystems of the Baltic Sea Region. In order to meet those challenges the nitrogen and phosphorous targeted solutions needs to be coupled with more systemic solutions and technologies in the context of economic sustainability and livelihood of the society. The focus on nitrogen and phosphorous loads is essential, but at the same time insufficient as an instrument for change among majority of BSR stakeholders. Actions must more strongly be linked with the sustainability of local resources, rural development, landscapes, biosecurity, climate and energy solutions.
Such solutions and concepts are poorly shared within the region. The competence, technologies, solutions and science is available but they are unevenly distributed and harmonized between regions, and moreover, between the west and the east. This is the specific transnational problem and challenge addressed by Baltic COMPASS. The project will be framed within a selective approach having a strong focus on results that provides added value to ongoing actions and policies. Baltic COMPASS incorporates the objectives of the EU Lisbon strategy, EU Marine Strategy Directive and the upcoming EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region, especially in combining environmental and economic sustainability.
Baltic Compass Framework
Baltic Compass contributes to the implementation of the Baltic Sea Action Plan approved by HELCOM and the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region. National Rural Development plans are also a part of the Baltic Compass framework.
Expected results
Baltic Compass is looking for innovative solutions that are needed for the future of the region, concerning agriculture, environment and business. Here are some of the specific results that can be expected from the Baltic Compass project:
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More efficient and adapted policies initiated to reduce eutrophication.
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Increased awareness concerning risks and benefits of actions and measures.
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Scenario runs for selected water protection measures.
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Decision support for land use with impact on eutrophication.
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Action programs to counteract ecological and health hazards for high-risk areas.
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More attractive agro-environment support schemes.
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Innovations and new technologies better shared through pilot investments and knowledge transfer.
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Strong stakeholder involvement and sharing of results also from other projects.
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Better implementation of Baltic Sea Action Plan and EU strategies.
