A recent report, TemaNord 2024:555 – Sustainable Levels of Human Activities in the Nordic Marine Environment, sheds light on the growing pressures on Nordic coastal and marine ecosystems. Activities like eutrophication, bottom trawling, shipping, and coastal development are significantly impacting underwater biodiversity, particularly in productive coastal areas. The COMA project (Cumulative pressure and impact studies supporting marine management and assessment) analyzed the cumulative impacts of these activities, focusing on ecosystem responses, the effects of various human actions, and sustainable thresholds. The findings aim to support policymakers in aligning human activities with environmental sustainability goals under European and HELCOM frameworks.

The report provides essential guidance to ensure a balanced approach to marine management, safeguarding the health and productivity of Nordic waters for future generations.

The report can be found at Nordisk Samabejde or downloaded as a PDF here: www.norden.org/NordPub