Protect Baltic

PROTECT BALTIC is an ambitious EU-funded initiative aimed at accelerating marine biodiversity protection in the Baltic Sea. With only 14–17% of the sea currently under protection—and strict protection nearly absent—the project supports the region’s urgent push to reach the EU Biodiversity Strategy target of 30% protected areas by 2030. But meeting this number is not enough—what truly matters is that protection efforts deliver real, measurable benefits for biodiversity.Leveraging the Baltic Sea’s unique position as one of the world’s most impacted yet highly governed and data-rich marine regions, PROTECT BALTIC is establishing a regionally agreed protection framework, building a robust data-driven foundation, and offering practical support to close gaps in marine protection and restoration.

This transboundary effort brings together researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the Baltic region to co-develop solutions across the full marine governance cycle. By aligning science with real-time policy needs, PROTECT BALTIC is redefining what’s possible in marine conservation—and shaping a sustainable future for one of Europe’s most vital seas.