RSA and WWF issue Baltic Sea warning

RSA Insurance Group and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) are calling for governments and businesses in the Baltic region to work together to protect the Baltic Sea's ecosystem.

In a report published today, 'Future trends in the Baltic Sea' RSA and the WWF warned of the dangers of exploitation and poor management as competition for resources and space in the Baltic Sea reaches "unprecedented levels".

The number of vessels is expected to double by 2030, while the wind energy sector's capacity is predicted to increase by over 6,000%, according to the report.

The report also forecasts growth in areas such as tourism, port capacity and physical exploration of the coastline and sea bed.

RSA and WWF are using new mapping technology to visualise and understand risks in the area.

James Wallace, RSA group head of corporate responsibility said: "The sustainability of the Baltic Sea ecosystem is of great importance for everyone in the region.

"WWF's unique mapping shows that there is an urgent need for an integrated and strategic approach if we are to overcome the issues facing the region.

"This report gives an important insight into the issues facing the Baltic region, and I hope in partnership with WWF we can help the region address them in a productive manner."