Finnish strategies for reduction and control of effluents to the marine environment––examples from agriculture, municipalities and industry

The most serious environmental problem encountered in the Baltic Sea is eutrophication. Finland finalised in spring 2002 its national Programme for the Protection of the Baltic Sea. The programme contains more than 30 measures for improving the state of the Baltic Sea and protecting the marine environment. Total national investments during the next 10–15 years will amount to EUR 300–370 million. The highest annual cost will be environmental support to agriculture. The bulk of the rest of the money will be used for nitrogen purification of municipal wastewater, improvement of water protection in dispersed settlement areas, and investments to improve maritime safety and decrease the risks of oil spills.