The legal instruments of the Baltic Sea protection as a particularly sensitive sea area

Abstract

The Baltic Sea is subject to various forms and instruments (measures) of legal protection as a sensitive and valuable marine ecosystem. In 2005, the Baltic Sea area was designated by the International Maritime Organization as PSSA and included in the world’s particularly sensitive sea areas. Associated protective measures adopted individually for each PSSA allow for the pursuit of an appropriate level of protection. The designation of the Baltic Sea area as a PSSA has contributed to raising awareness of the benefits of effective protection of the marine environment, in particular against the risks associated with navigation, including consequences of marine casualties. However, effective protection of the Baltic Sea ecosystem requires continuous improvement of cooperation between States and international organizations based on good communication.