Marine Ecological Quality in the conceptual framework for assessing eutrophication (HELCOM QUALITY) 2005-2007
Background:
Development of biodiversity assessment criteria within HELCOM for the Baltic Sea is part of the HELCOM Baltic Sea Action Plan process, regional implementation of the ecosystem approach and the European Marine Strategy.
Aim:
The HELCOM QUALITY will compile existing national and european-level information and develop assessment tools for species composition and community structure, i.e. biodiversity effects of human-induced processes with the main weight on eutrophication.
Actions:
This project will be carried out in close cooperation with the Contracting Parties and stakeholders, with special reference to HELCOM groups and/or task forces (scientific experts) and representatives of HELCOM HOD (management expertise).
The main goals of the project are:
1. A proposal for a biodiversity assessment scheme similar to the Pan-European Eutrophication conceptual model;
2. System of hierarchical assessment of HELCOM Strategic Goal, Ecological Objectives and Indicators related to biodiversity
3. Biodiversity –related input to the Baltic Sea Action Plan and the Ministerial meeting of 2007, and further to the planned HELCOM holistic assessment
4. Templates and suggestions for indicator fact sheets covering large areas of the Baltic Sea on specific biodiversity topics
5. A number of management-applicable publications.
The project will work towards pragmatic solutions to the complex task of assessing Baltic Sea biodiversity for European Marine Strategy and Convention on Biological Diversity 2010 target needs
Contacts:
Project Manager, Mr. Juha-Markku Leppänen
Professional Secretary
Helsinki Commission
Katajanokanlaituri 6B
FI-00160 Helsinki, Finland
Tel: +358-9-6220 220
E-mail: juha-markku.leppanan@helcom.fi
Project Researcher: Mr. Hermanni Backer, HELCOM Secretariat