Baltics 'must do better' on sea protection

  • 2007-08-27
  • By Mike Collier
All three Baltic States have been criticized by environmental organization WWF for failing to protect the Baltic Sea.

WWF has produced a publication in the style of school pupils' report cards assessing how effective each of the nine countries bordering the Baltic is in protecting the maritime environment.

Latvia and Lithuania are judged 'average' with rankings of 'C-' apiece, while Estonia finds itself near the bottom of the class with an 'F'. Only Russia fares worse.

Latvia was ranked joint best with Sweden in tackling pollution caused by maritime transport and Lithuania was judged to be best in class as far as hazardous chemicals are concerned.

Overall, Germany achieved the best result, but remains a long way from being considered teacher's pet with a paltry 'C+' grade. Russia at least had the virtue of consistency in its favor, achieving an 'F' grade in every single category including biodiversity and fisheries.

"The Baltic Sea deserves better. We will need commitments from all levels and sectors of society to counter the present trends. Only with strong leadership and commitment from the highest level of governments will we be able to turn the tide," the report concludes.