Member State report / Art10 / 2018 / D4 / Baltic

Report type Member State report to Commission
MSFD Article Art. 10 Environmental targets (and Art. 17 updates)
Report due 2018-10-15
GES Descriptor D4 Food webs/D1 Ecosystems
Region/subregion Baltic
Reported by Member state
Member state
Finland
Estonia
Latvia
Lithuania
Poland
Germany
Denmark
Sweden
Member state report
Reporting area(s) MRUs used
  • BAL-FI
  • BAL-FI-AS
  • BAL-FI-BB
  • BAL-FI-BS
  • BAL-FI-GF
  • BAL-FI-NB
  • BAL-FI-QK
  • BAL-EE-AA
  • BAL-LV-AAA-006
  • BAL-LT-AA-01
  • BAL-LT-AA-03
  • BAL-POL-FAO27-3D25
  • BAL-POL-FAO27-3D26
  • BAL-POL-MS-001
  • L2-SEA-007-POL
  • L2-SEA-008-POL
  • L2-SEA-009-POL
  • L4-POL-001
  • L4-POL-002
  • L4-POL-003
  • L4-POL-004
  • L4-POL-005
  • L4-POL-006
  • L4-POL-007
  • L4-POL-008
  • L4-POL-009
  • L4-POL-010
  • L4-POL-011
  • L4-POL-012
  • L4-POL-013
  • L4-POL-014
  • L4-POL-015
  • L4-POL-016
  • L4-POL-017
  • L4-POL-018
  • L4-POL-019
  • BALDE_MS
  • DK-TOTAL-part-BAL
  • BAL-SE-RG-Ostersjon
Features Structure, functions and processes of marine ecosystems: Species
  • Benthic-feeding birds (2)
  • Seals (2)
  • Marine species (12)
  • Coastal fish (1)
  • Commercially exploited fish and shellfish (3)
  • Coastal fish (9)
  • Demersal shelf fish (5)
  • Grazing birds (1)
  • All fish (2)
  • Commercially exploited fish and shellfish (4)
  • Marine species (2)
  • All birds (3)
  • All fish (3)
  • All mammals (3)
  • All birds (3)
  • All fish (3)
  • All mammals (2)
  • Coastal fish (2)
  • Commercially exploited fish and shellfish (2)
  • Demersal shelf fish (2)
  • Pelagic shelf fish (2)
  • Seals (1)
Features Structure, functions and processes of marine ecosystems: Habitats
  • Benthic habitats (22)
  • All habitats (12)
  • Pelagic habitats (3)
  • Benthic broad habitats (1)
  • Benthic habitats (4)
  • Pelagic broad habitats (1)
  • Pelagic habitats (3)
Features Structure, functions and processes of marine ecosystems: Ecosystems, including food webs
  • Coastal ecosystem (1)
  • Shelf ecosystem (3)
  • All trophic guilds (115)
  • Primary producers (3)
  • Secondary producers (1)
  • All physical and hydrological characteristics (6)
  • All trophic guilds (2)
  • Dissolved oxygen (1)
  • Ecosystems, including food webs (2)
  • Nutrients (N, P) (1)
  • Transparency (1)
Features Structure, functions and processes of marine ecosystems: No theme
  • All marine ecosystem elements (14)
  • All marine ecosystem elements (2)
Features Anthropogenic pressures on the marine environment: Biological
  • Disturbance of species (e.g. where they breed, rest and feed) due to human presence (1)
  • Extraction of, or mortality/injury to, wild species (by commercial and recreational fishing and other activities) (13)
  • Disturbance of species (e.g. where they breed, rest and feed) due to human presence (1)
  • Extraction of, or mortality/injury to, wild species (by commercial and recreational fishing and other activities) (92)
  • Extraction of, or mortality/injury to, wild species (by commercial and recreational fishing and other activities) (10)
  • Input of microbial pathogens (3)
  • Input or spread of non-indigenous species (7)
  • Extraction of, or mortality/injury to, wild species (by commercial and recreational fishing and other activities) (1)
Features Anthropogenic pressures on the marine environment: Physical
  • Changes to hydrological conditions (22)
  • Physical disturbance to seabed (22)
  • Physical loss of the seabed (22)
  • Changes to hydrological conditions (14)
  • Physical disturbance to seabed (21)
  • Physical loss of the seabed (18)
  • Physical disturbance to seabed (1)
  • Physical loss of the seabed (1)
Features Anthropogenic pressures on the marine environment: Substances, litter and energy
  • Input of nutrients - diffuse sources, point sources, atmospheric deposition (118)
  • Input of organic matter - diffuse sources and point sources (118)
  • Input of other substances (e.g. synthetic substances, non-synthetic substances, radionuclides) - diffuse sources, point sources, atmospheric deposition, acute events (24)
  • Input of anthropogenic sound (impulsive, continuous) (5)
  • Input of litter (solid waste matter, including micro-sized litter) (7)
  • Input of nutrients - diffuse sources, point sources, atmospheric deposition (9)
  • Input of organic matter - diffuse sources and point sources (5)
  • Input of other forms of energy (including electromagnetic fields, light and heat) (4)
  • Input of other substances (e.g. synthetic substances, non-synthetic substances, radionuclides) - diffuse sources, point sources, atmospheric deposition, acute events (13)
Features Anthropogenic pressures on the marine environment: No theme
  • All pressures (23)
Features Pressure levels and impacts in marine environment: Biological
  • Newly-introduced non-indigenous species (2)
  • Established non-indigenous species (1)
  • Newly-introduced non-indigenous species (1)
Features Pressure levels and impacts in marine environment: Physical and hydrological
  • Continuous low frequency sound (1)
  • Hydrographical changes (7)
  • Impulsive sound in water (1)
Features Pressure levels and impacts in marine environment: Chemical
  • Acute pollution events (1)
  • Contaminants - UPBT substances (2)
  • Contaminants - in seafood (2)
  • Contaminants - non UPBT substances (2)
  • Eutrophication (3)
  • Contaminants - UPBT substances (2)
  • Contaminants - in seafood (1)
  • Contaminants - non UPBT substances (2)
Features Uses and human activities in or affecting the marine environment: Cultivation of living resources
  • All activities related to cultivation of living resources (1)
  • Aquaculture - marine, including infrastructure (1)
GES components
  • D1 Biodiversity (14)
  • D1 Birds (8)
  • D1 Fish (7)
  • D1 Mammals (8)
  • D10 Litter (1)
  • D11 Energy, incl. underwater noise (2)
  • D2 Non-indigenous species (1)
  • D3 Commercial fish and shellfish (14)
  • D4 Food webs/D1 Ecosystems (31)
  • D5 Eutrophication (1)
  • D6 Sea-floor integrity/D1 Benthic habitats (14)
  • D7 Hydrographical changes (1)
  • D8 Contaminants (1)
  • D9 Contaminants in seafood (1)
  • D1 Biodiversity (1)
  • D4 Food webs/D1 Ecosystems (1)
  • D5 Eutrophication (1)
  • D6 Sea-floor integrity/D1 Benthic habitats (1)
  • D1 Biodiversity (12)
  • D2 Non-indigenous species (12)
  • D4 Food webs/D1 Ecosystems (12)
  • D6 Sea-floor integrity/D1 Benthic habitats (12)
  • D1 Fish (1)
  • D3 Commercial fish and shellfish (3)
  • D4 Food webs/D1 Ecosystems (4)
  • D1 Fish (14)
  • D1 Mammals (1)
  • D1 Pelagic habitats (1)
  • D1C2 Population abundance (1.2, 1.2.1) (9)
  • D1C3 Population demographic characteristics (1.3, 1.3.1) (6)
  • D1C6 Pelagic habitat condition (1.5.2, 1.6, 1.6.1, 1.6.2, 1.6.3) (1)
  • D4 Food webs/D1 Ecosystems (118)
  • D4C1 Trophic guild species diversity (1.7, 1.7.1) (54)
  • D4C2 Abundance across trophic guilds (1.7, 1.7.1, 4.3, 4.3.1) (26)
  • D4C3 Trophic guild size distribution (4.2, 4.2.1) (29)
  • D4C4 Trophic guild productivity (4.1, 4.1.1) (24)
  • D6 Sea-floor integrity/D1 Benthic habitats (22)
  • D6C5 Benthic habitat condition (1.6, 1.6.1, 1.6.2, 1.6.3, 6.2, 6.2.1, 6.2.2, 6.2.3, 6.2.4) (22)
  • D8C2 Adverse effects of contaminants (8.2, 8.2.1) (1)
  • D1 Biodiversity (16)
  • D1 Birds (24)
  • D1 Cephalopods (2)
  • D1 Fish (27)
  • D1 Mammals (24)
  • D1 Pelagic habitats (29)
  • D10 Litter (4)
  • D11 Energy, incl. underwater noise (9)
  • D2 Non-indigenous species (6)
  • D3 Commercial fish and shellfish (4)
  • D4 Food webs/D1 Ecosystems (45)
  • D5 Eutrophication (7)
  • D6 Sea-floor integrity/D1 Benthic habitats (37)
  • D7 Hydrographical changes (14)
  • D8 Contaminants (10)
  • D9 Contaminants in seafood (10)
  • D1 Biodiversity (2)
  • D1C3 Population demographic characteristics (1.3, 1.3.1) (1)
  • D4 Food webs/D1 Ecosystems (2)
  • D4C1 Trophic guild species diversity (1.7, 1.7.1) (3)
  • D4C2 Abundance across trophic guilds (1.7, 1.7.1, 4.3, 4.3.1) (3)
  • D4C3 Trophic guild size distribution (4.2, 4.2.1) (2)
  • D4C4 Trophic guild productivity (4.1, 4.1.1) (3)
  • D6 Sea-floor integrity/D1 Benthic habitats (2)
  • D1 Biodiversity (4)
  • D1 Birds (3)
  • D1 Fish (5)
  • D1 Mammals (3)
  • D1 Pelagic habitats (1)
  • D1C2 Population abundance (1.2, 1.2.1) (2)
  • D1C3 Population demographic characteristics (1.3, 1.3.1) (2)
  • D1C4 Population distributional range and pattern (1.1, 1.1.1, 1.1.2, 1.1.3) (2)
  • D1C6 Pelagic habitat condition (1.5.2, 1.6, 1.6.1, 1.6.2, 1.6.3) (5)
  • D2 Non-indigenous species (1)
  • D3 Commercial fish and shellfish (2)
  • D3C1 Fishing mortality rate (F) (3.1, 3.1.1, 3.1.2) (2)
  • D3C2 Spawning stock biomass (SSB) (3.2, 3.2.1, 3.2.2) (2)
  • D4 Food webs/D1 Ecosystems (5)
  • D4C1 Trophic guild species diversity (1.7, 1.7.1) (4)
  • D4C2 Abundance across trophic guilds (1.7, 1.7.1, 4.3, 4.3.1) (4)
  • D4C3 Trophic guild size distribution (4.2, 4.2.1) (3)
  • D4C4 Trophic guild productivity (4.1, 4.1.1) (3)
  • D5C1 Nutrient concentrations (5.1, 5.1.1) (1)
  • D5C2 Chlorophyll-a concentration (5.2.1) (1)
  • D5C3 Harmful algal blooms (5.2.4) (1)
  • D5C4 Photic limit (5.2.2) (1)
  • D5C5 Dissolved oxygen concentration (5.3.2) (1)
  • D5C7 Macrophyte communities of benthic habitats (5.3.1) (1)
  • D5C8 Macrofaunal communities of benthic habitats (1)
  • D6 Sea-floor integrity/D1 Benthic habitats (1)
  • D6C1 Physical loss of the seabed (6.1) (1)
  • D6C2 Physical disturbance to the seabed (6.1) (1)
  • D6C5 Benthic habitat condition (1.6, 1.6.1, 1.6.2, 1.6.3, 6.2, 6.2.1, 6.2.2, 6.2.3, 6.2.4) (7)
  • D8C1 Contaminants in environment (8.1, 8.1.1) (2)
  • D8C2 Adverse effects of contaminants (8.2, 8.2.1) (2)
  • D8C3 Significant acute pollution events (8.2.2) (2)
  • D9C1 Contaminants in seafood (9.1, 9.1.1) (1)
Target Number defined
8
1
1
1
11
37
5
7
Target code/description
LUVAyleinen: Use of natural resources is ecologically sustainable and does not risk achieving or maintaining good state.
ALUE1: Maritime spatial planning is carried out in a way that it advances the achievement of good environmental status in marine environment.
LUVA1: Managing the coastal fisheries secures its sustainability for the most important target species, support biological diversity and not risk achievement of good state.
LUVA3: Hunting game bag of common eider (Somateria mollissima) and long-tailed duck (Clangula hyemalis) will be on sustainable level and in balance with the state of the populations.
LUONTO1: Marine protected areas cover at least 10% of each of the five marine areas and form an ecologically coherent network.
LUONTO2: Marine protected areas will effectively protect the features for which they have been established. Within-MPA pressures will be lower than outside in order to ensure habitats’ and species’ viability and favourable conservation status. Management plans will be made on the basis of the local underwater nature and the pressures threatening it.
TIETO1: Knowledge basis for ringed seal conservation measures is solid in the subpopulations of Archipelago Sea and Gulf of Finland.
LUONTO3: Disturbing or adversely affecting traffic and human presence and activities decrease in marine protected areas.
BALEE-T34: BALEE-T34 - supporting the development of environmentally friendly marine aquaculture, including its infrastructure.
JVM1: Anthropogenic activities have not negatively impacted marine habitats and species
1: Ensure that the exploitation intensity of commercially exploited fish populations does not exceed safe biological limits and preserves the structure of the Baltic Sea food web. In the paper report “NATIONAL PROGRAMME OF MEASURES FOR 2017-2023 TO ACHIEVE AND / OR MAINTAIN THE GOOD STATUS OF THE BALTIC SEA ENVIRONMENT” (2017), this objective is divided into two separate objectives: No. 1: Ensure that the exploitation intensities of commercially exploited fish populations do not exceed safe biological limits; No. 2: Preserve the structure of the Baltic Sea food web (optimal diversity, size and abundance of organisms) so as not to disrupt the transmission of nutrients in the food chain.
PL_Target_D6C5_zoobenthos: Reducing the pressures associated with the introduction of biogenic, synthetic, non-synthetic substances, organic matter into the environment as well as pressure related with extraction and compaction of the substrate causing secondary abrasion and siltation in order to restore close to the natural structure of macrozoobenthos communities. In relation to substance introduction, the targets are consistent with those for D5, D8 and D9. In terms of impact on the seabed, the targets are consistent with those for the criteria D6C1, D6C2, D6C3 and D7C1 and D7C2
PL_Target_D4C2: Reduction of the nutrients and organic matter load to the sea, and reduction of the level of exploitation of species listed in the Habitats Directive and Birds Directive to a level that guarantees the balance of abundance between trophic guilds.
PL_Target_white tailed eagle: Maintaining or increasing the productivity of the white-tailed eagle by maintaining or reducing the current level of anthropogenic pressure associated with the introduction of synthetic and non-synthetic compounds into the environment and disturbance in breeding sites.
PL_Target_D1C3_LFI: Reduction of overexploitation of marine species in the open sea to the level of natural share of large fish in the structure of fish communities.
PL_Target_D4C1: Reduction of the nutrients and organic matter load to the sea, and reduction of the level of exploitation of species listed in the Habitats Directive and Birds Directive to a level that guarantees natural diversity of trophic guilds
PL_Target_D4C3: Not increasing the pressure associated with the introduction of biogenic substances and organic matter and the scale of exploitation of the species listed in the Birds Directive and the Habitats Directive to a level that guarantees maintenance of the natural size distribution of individuals in the trophic guild.
PL_Target_D4: Reduction of the impact of human activity to the level that enables the ecosystem to achieve a state where all elements of the marine trophic chain will show a natural and stable level of abundance and diversity, and the productivity of biotic components guarantees the proper functioning of the food web.
PL_Target_D1C2_fish: Reduction of overexploitation of fish within the transitional waters to the level that the key species natural diversity, abundance, size, and age structure is achieved
PL_Target_D4C2_Dia/Dino: Not increasing the level of nutrients and organic matter in the environment in order to maintain or increase the share of diatoms in relation to the share of Dinoflagellates in the phytoplankton structure.
PL_Target_D1C6_zooplankton: Maintain or reduce the pressures relating to the input of the nutrient, synthetic and non-synthetic compounds, and organic matter into marine environment, in order to maintain zooplankton size structure and biomass at the current level.
PL_Target_D4C4: Not increasing the pressure associated with the introduction of biogenic substances and organic matter and the scale of exploitation of the species listed in the Birds Directive and the Habitats Directive to a level that guarantees maintenance of the natural productivity of trophic guilds.
UZO5: The objective is "Seas without pressures from waste". The objective is implemented by means of the operational objectives UZO5.1, UZO5.2 and UZO5.3. The environmental objectives established in 2012 and their description under the 2012 MSFD report continue to apply. They are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on the state of achievement of the target, this will be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO6.5: Marine light effects emanating from human activities do not have an adverse effect on the marine environment. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2016 programme of measures for 2021- notified to the European Commission. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text of the text shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO4.3: Fishing does not affect other ecosystem components (non-target and benthic communities) to the extent that the achievement or maintenance of their specific good environmental status is threatened. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2016 programme of measures for 2021- notified to the European Commission. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text of the text shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment. However, in relation to birds, it was found that the environmental objective was not achieved.
UZO3: The global objective is: "Seas without harming marine species and habitats through the impact of human activities". The objective is implemented by means of the operational objectives UZO3.1, UZO3.2, UZO3.3, UZO3.4 and UZO3.5. The environmental objectives established in 2012 and their description under the 2012 MSFD report continue to apply. They are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and the state of implementation of the measures respectively. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment on progress towards achieving the target is available, this will be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO7.3: Changes in habitats and, in particular, habitat functions (e.g. spawning, nursery and feeding grounds, or migration routes of fish, birds and mammals) due to man-made alterations of the hydrographical situation do not lead, alone or cumulatively, to a risk to species or habitats or to the loss of populations respectively.
UZO4.1: All commercially exploited stocks are managed on the basis of maximum sustainable yield (MSY) approach. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment on progress towards achieving the target is available, this will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO1.3: Operational objective for the overall environmental objective 'Seas without impacts from anthropogenic eutrophication: Nutrient inputs from the atmosphere should be further reduced.
UZO6.2: Noise inputs due to continuous, especially low-frequency broadband noises have no negative spatial and temporal effects, such as significant (substantial) disturbances (expulsion from habitats, masking of biologically relevant signals, etc.) and physical damage to marine species. As continuous noise inputs predominantly originate from the shipping sector, the specific operational objective of reducing the contribution of noise stemming from ships to the background levels should be aimed for. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report describes the achievement of objectives and the state of implementation of the measures respectively. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment on progress towards achieving the target is available, will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO7: The objective is "seas with natural hydro-morphological characteristics". The objective is implemented by means of the operational objectives UZO7.1, UZO7.2 and UZO7.3. The environmental objectives established in 2012 and their description under the 2012 MSFD report continue to apply. They are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. The indicator evaluation on progress towards achieving targets is reported in the Progress Report on operational objectives.
UZO3.1: Sufficient spatial and temporal refuge and rest zones for ecosystem components exist. In order to protect against anthropogenic interference, for instance unused and/or restricted areas will be established ("no-take-zones and "no-take-times" for fisheries in accordance with the rules of the CFP)(see inter alia, Recital 39 of the MSFD). The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and the state of implementation of the measures respectively. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment on progress towards achieving the target is available, will this be reported in the Progress Assessment. However, for birds, fish, mammals and benthic habitats, it was established that the environmental target UZ3.1. was not met.
UZO2.2: Atmospheric emissions from the atmosphere must be further reduced. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2016 programme of measures for 2021- notified to the European Commission. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text of the text shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO3.2: The structure and function of food webs and marine habitats will not be adversely affected further by by-catches, discards and bottom-trawling. Regeneration of ecosystem components damaged as a result of past interventions is sought. The functional groups of biological characteristics (MSFD Annex III Table 1) or their food base are not endangered. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and the state of implementation of the measures respectively. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment on progress towards achieving the target is available, will this be reported in the Progress Assessment. However, in relation to birds, it was found that the environmental objective was not achieved.
UZO5.2: Hazardous waste proven to be present in marine organisms (in particular, microplastics) is approaching zero zero in the long term. The objective is "Seas without pressures from waste". The environmental objectives established in 2012 and their description under the 2012 MSFD report continue to apply. They are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on the state of achievement of the target, this will be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO1: The aim is to have 'seas without adverse effects from eutrophication'. The objective is implemented by means of the operational objectives UZO1.1, UZO1.2 and UZO1.3. The environmental objectives established in 2012 and their description under the 2012 MSFD report continue to apply. They are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures, notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text of the text shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. The indicator evaluation on progress towards achieving targets is reported in the Progress Report on operational objectives. In the Baltic Sea Action Plan, HELCOM has established a maximum permissible nutrient input of 21.000 tonnes of phosphorus and 600.000 tonnes of nitrogen for the whole Baltic Sea. As a result, concrete nutrient reduction targets have been set based on the MARE-NEST model for the countries bordering the Baltic Sea (HELCOM, 2007). Germany has committed to reduce its nutrient inputs into the Baltic Sea by 240 tonnes for phosphorus by 2016 and for nitrogen by 5.620 tonnes. Reduction targets are based on the parameter visibility depth. The nutrient reduction targets have been reviewed scientifically and new targets have been set in HELCOM's Ministerial meeting in 2013. At the 2013 HELCOM Ministerial meeting, Germany committed itself to reducing the annual nitrogen inputs into the Baltic Sea by around 7.670 tonnes (water and air-borne inputs combined) and a reduction of phosphorus inputs by around 170 tonnes compared to the base period 1997-2003.
UZO4.6: The exploitation or exploration of non-living resources will not damage or seriously disrupt the ecosystem components of the German Baltic Sea, in particular the fragile, declining and protected species and habitats. Breeding, rearing, moulting, hibernation and migration periods, as well as the breeding, resting and feeding sites of the species concerned, shall be particularly taken into account. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment. However, in relation to birds, it was found that the environmental objective was not achieved.
UZO2.5: Pollutant concentrations in the marine environment and the resulting pollution effects are to be reduced and due to good environmental status. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2016 programme of measures for 2021- notified to the European Commission. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text of the text shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment. The relevant indicator assessments ?concentrations of pollutants in water, organisms and sediments?, ?Biological pollutant effects? and ?contaminants in seafood?, as relevant for Article 10, are not included here, since detailed reports are already provided under Article 8_GES (D8C1, D8C2 and D9C1). Reference is made to Article 8_ESG reporting on D8 and D9.
UZO6.3: The anthropogenic heat input does not have negative spatial and temporal impacts and does not exceed the agreed limit values respectively. In territorial waters, a temperature increase of 2 K in 30cm depth and in the EEZ an increase of 2 K in 20cm sediment depth respectively will not be exceeded. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and the state of implementation of the measures respectively. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment on progress towards achieving the target is available, will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO1.2: Operational environmental objective for the overarching environmental objective 'seas without adverse effects from anthropogenic eutrophication': Nutrient inputs via remote entries from other marine areas should be reduced. This should be done in the framework of the regional cooperation of HELCOM.
UZO2: The objective is ?Seas without pollution by pollutants?. The objective is implemented by means of the operational objectives TSO2.1, UZO2.2, UZO2.3, UZO2.4 and UZO2.5. The environmental objectives established in 2012 and their description under the 2012 MSFD report continue to apply. They are the basis for the 2016-2016 programme of measures for 2021- notified to the European Commission. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text of the text shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO5.1: Continuous reduction of inputs and already present waste result in a significant reduction of waste with harmful effects on the marine environment on beaches, the sea surface, the water column and the seabed. The objective is "Seas without pressures from waste". The environmental objectives established in 2012 and their description under the 2012 MSFD report continue to apply. They are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on the state of achievement of the target, this will be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO4.4: Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in accordance with EC Regulation Nr.1005/2008 is approaching zero. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO6.1: Anthropogenic noise by sound signals and shock waves does not cause physical harm (e.g. a temporary hearing threshold shift in harbour porpoises) and no significant disturbance of marine species. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and the state of implementation of the measures respectively. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment on progress towards achieving the target is available, will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO6.4:
UZO6: The objective is "seas without interference from anthropogenic energy inputs". The objective is implemented by means of the operational objectives UZO6.1, UZO6.2, UZO6.3, UZO6.4 and UZO6.5. The environmental objectives established in 2012 and their description under the 2012 MSFD report continue to apply. They are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and the state of implementation of the measures respectively. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment on progress towards achieving the target is available, will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO3.3: If, taking into account the effects of climate change, the environmental conditions are met for the successful reintroduction of locally extinct or endangered species, their resettlement or the stabilisation of their populations will be sought, as well as other risk factors removed in sufficiently large marine areas for these species. Ongoing resettlement projects, such as for the sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus), are completed with the successful reintroduction of the species. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2016 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report describes the achievement of objectives and the state of implementation of the measures respectively. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment showing progress towards achieving the targets is available, this will be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO7.1: The sum of physical interventions does not result in any lasting change in the hydrographical conditions in the marine and coastal waters affected, with a negative impact on the marine environment.
UZO3.5: The total number of introductions and movements of new species is close to zero. Prevention measures are implemented to minimise (unintentional) introduction. Emerging species will be identified in time to ensure that promising emergency measures can be implemented, if necessary. The signing and implementation of existing regulations and conventions are an important prerequisite for this. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment. The indicator "Trend and number of newly introduced non-native species", which is relevant to Article 10, is not included here, as it is already reported in detail under Article 8_GES (D2C1). Reference is made to Article 8_GES (D2C1).
UZO1.1: Operational environmental objective for the overarching environmental objective 'seas without adverse effects from anthropogenic eutrophication': Nutrient inputs via the rivers are to be further reduced. Reduction targets have been set in the programs of measures of the WFD. The phosphorus and nitrogen compound loads from German tributaries to the Baltic Sea have been declining since the 1980s. However, since 2000, there has hardly been a decreasing trend and, very strong annual fluctuations have occurred. In 2014, about 2,800 tons of nitrogen and about 112 tons of phosphorus were introduced into the Baltic Sea via the river basin districts Schlei / Trave and Warnow / Peene (UBA 2017). If one additionally considers the entries of smaller inflows, e.g. into the small lagoon in the Oder catchment area, as well as the German entries into the Oder, then approx. 9,600 tons of nitrogen and approx. 360 tons of phosphorus were registered in the Baltic Sea in 2014 (UBA 2017). The nutrient inputs of the surface waters draining into the Baltic Sea with the substance input model MoRe decreased by 19% (5,119 tons) for nitrogen and 17% (168 tons) for phosphorus compared to the evaluation periods 2012-2014 and 2006-2011 (UBA 2017, Fuchs et al 2016). Compared to the 2012-2014 and 1983-1987 evaluation periods, nutrient inputs decreased by 65% ​​(40,835 tonnes) for nitrogen and 78% (2,844 tonnes) for phosphorus (Source: MoRe). According to the MoRe substance input model, agriculture (78% of nitrogen inputs and 51% of phosphorus inputs) followed by point sources (eg sewage treatment plants) (9% of nitrogen inputs and 20% of phosphorus inputs) were the main contributors to nutrient inputs over the period 2012-2014. Entries from urban areas and atmospheric deposition on surface waters in the catchment area of ​​the Baltic Sea played a subordinate role.
UZO2.4: Entrances of oil and oil products and mixtures into the sea must be reduced and avoided. This concerns illegal, permitted and unintentional entries. Entries by shipping are only permitted according to the strict requirements of the MARPOL Convention; in order to reduce them further, an adaptation or change of the MARPOL appendices is necessary. The environmental goals set by Germany in 2012 form the basis for the MSFD program of measures 2016-2021 reported to the EU Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for an update of the environmental goals is often not yet possible. Where possible, the achievement of objectives or the implementation status of the measures is shown in the text report. Only in individual cases where there is an indicator assessment of the progress towards achieving the goal is this reported under ProgressAssessment. This is omitted for the indicator evaluations relevant to Art. 10 "Type and quantity of entries" and "Size and quantities of polluted sea surface", since the status of the indicator development and evaluation is already reported under Art. 8_GES (D8C3). Reference is made to Art. 8_GES reporting on D8.
UZO4.5: Within the protected areas in the German Baltic Sea, the protection objectives and purposes a priority. Particular attention should be paid to the specific public interests of coastal protection in the exploitation of non-living resources, and should only be taken into consideration after careful assessment of alternatives. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment. However, in relation to birds, it was found that the environmental objective was not achieved.
UZO4: The global objective is: "Seas with sustainably and carefully used resources". The objective is implemented by means of the operational objectives TSO4.1, UZO4.2, UZO4.3, UZO4.4, UZO4.5 and UZO4.6. The environmental objectives established in 2012 and their description under the 2012 MSFD report continue to apply. They are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures for notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO7.2: The sum of the influences of hydrological processes does not adversely affect marine ecosystems.
UZO2.3: Emission of pollutants from marine sources such as shipping must be reduced. This applies in particular to gaseous and liquid discharges, but also to the introduction of solid substances. Discharges from shipping are regulated under MARPOL
UZO3.4: Human infrastructure and uses do not pose a threat to the natural distribution (including migration) of species for which ecologically passable migration corridors present essential habitats. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report describes the achievement of objectives and the state of implementation of the measures respectively. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment on progress towards achieving the target is available, will this be reported in the Progress Assessment. However, in relation to birds, it was found that the environmental objective was not achieved.
UZO4.2: Stocks of harvested species have an age and size structure in which all ages and sizes continue to be represented resembling natural conditions. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO5.3: Other adverse environmental effects (such as entanglement and strangulation) are reduced to a minimum. The objective is "Seas without pressures from waste". The environmental objectives established in 2012 and their description under the 2012 MSFD report continue to apply. They are the basis for the 2016-2021 programme of measures notified to the European Commission in 2016. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text report shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on the state of achievement of the target, this will be reported in the Progress Assessment.
UZO2.1: Pollutant emissions from the rivers need to be further reduced. Reduction targets have been laid down in the programmes of measures of the WFD management plans. The environmental objectives established by Germany in 2012 are the basis for the 2016-2016 programme of measures for 2021- notified to the European Commission. Since the implementation of the measures was only started in 2016, an assessment of the progress and effectiveness of the measures as a basis for updating the environmental objectives is often not yet possible. Where possible, the text of the text shows the achievement of objectives and/or the state of implementation of the measures. Only in individual cases where an indicator assessment is available on progress towards achieving the target will this be reported in the Progress Assessment.
DK-T4.2: The Ministry of Environment and Food contributes to regional knowledge and methodology development on marine food webs. (Operational target)
DK-T6.6: The northern Sound is designated as a marine protected area pursuant to the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, and new licences to extract mineral resources are stopped. This will not result in any changes in relation to the existing fisheries regulation
DK-T4.1: The Ministry of Environment and Food contributes to regional work regarding establishment of threshold values and determination of good environmental status, and works to ensure that the anthropogenic impacts on the food web are in accordance hereto.
DK-T6.10: The need for additional marine protected areas or other initiatives in the Baltic Sea and the North Sea is assessed, and a similar assessment is subsequently carried out for the Danish Straits. (Operational target)
DK-T4.3: The Ministry of Environment and Food is tracking the development in the food web through monitoring the individual sub-elements of the web. (Operational target)
BALSE-B.2_Tillförsel_farliga_ämnen_effekt: B.2 Hazardous substances in the marine environment supplied by human activities must not cause adverse effects on biodiversity and ecosystems. B.2 Hazardous substances in the marine environment introduced through human activities shall not cause adverse effects on biological diversity and ecosystems.
BALSE-C.3_Population_fisk_ålder_storlek_bestånd: C.3 The populations of all naturally occurring fish species and shellfish affected by fishing have an age and size structure, as well as a stock size that guarantee their long-term sustainability.
BALSE-B.1_Tillförsel_farliga_ämnen_halt: B.1. The supply of hazardous substances from human activities shall be reduced until it does not cause levels of dangerous substances which prevent good environmental status from being achieved. B.1 Input of hazardous substances from human activities shall decrease until it does not cause concentrations of hazardous substances that prevent good environmental status from being achieved.
BALSE-D.1_Havsbottenareal_struktur_funktion: D.1 The seabed area unaffected by human activities shall have an extent that provides conditions for maintaining the structure and functioning of the habitat types.
BALSE-C.1_Introduktion_främmande arter: C.1 The marine environment shall be free of newly-released or newly-translocated non-indigenous species and strains, and non-indigenous species otherwise introduced through human activities, which may adverse effects on genetic or biological diversity or the ecosystem functioning.
BALSE-C.4_Samhälle_fisk_förkomst_art_storlek: C.4 Presence, species composition of species, and size distribution in the fish community must make it possible to maintain important functions in the food web. (HVMFS 2012:29).
BALSE-A.1_Tillförsel_näringsämnen: A.1 The supply of nutrients from human activities shall decrease until it does not cause concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus in the marine environment which prevent good environmental status from being achieved. A.1 Input of nutrients from human activities shall decrease until it does not cause concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus in the marine environment which prevent good environmental status from being achieved.
Target value No. of parameters/elements with quantitative values
  • Not reported (31 - 100.0%)
  • Reported (0 - 0.0%)
  • Not reported (5 - 41.7%)
  • Reported (7 - 58.3%)
  • Not reported (1 - 25.0%)
  • Reported (3 - 75.0%)
  • Not reported (156 - 100.0%)
  • Reported (0 - 0.0%)
  • Not reported (42 - 93.3%)
  • Reported (3 - 6.7%)
  • Not reported (5 - 100.0%)
  • Reported (0 - 0.0%)
  • Not reported (7 - 100.0%)
  • Reported (0 - 0.0%)
Target status No. of assessments per category
  • Target not yet achieved (31 - 100.0%)
  • Target achieved (3 - 25.0%)
  • Target not yet achieved (9 - 75.0%)
  • Target achieved (2 - 50.0%)
  • Target not yet achieved (2 - 50.0%)
  • Status not reported (156 - 100.0%)
  • Status not reported (22 - 48.9%)
  • Target achieved (7 - 15.6%)
  • Target not yet achieved (16 - 35.6%)
  • Target achieved (1 - 20.0%)
  • Target not yet achieved (4 - 80.0%)
  • Status not reported (2 - 28.6%)
  • Target not yet achieved (5 - 71.4%)
Assessment period No. of targets per period
2018-2024 (31 - 100.0%)
2011-2016 (12 - 100.0%)
2012-2017 (4 - 100.0%)
2011-2016 (156 - 100.0%)
2011-2015 (2 - 4.4%)
2011-2016 (34 - 75.6%)
2012-2014 (3 - 6.7%)
2012-2018 (4 - 8.9%)
2014 (1 - 2.2%)
2015 (1 - 2.2%)
2018-2024 (5 - 100.0%)
2011-2016 (7 - 100.0%)
Timescale to achieve targets No. of targets per date
2024-12 (31 - 100.0%)
2027-12 (1 - 100.0%)
2020-12 (12 - 100.0%)
2030-12 (4 - 100.0%)
2022-12 (156 - 100.0%)
2020-12 (45 - 100.0%)
2024-10 (5 - 100.0%)
2020-12 (7 - 100.0%)
Update date No. of targets per date
2018-07 (31 - 100.0%)
2019-03 (1 - 100.0%)
2016-07 (12 - 100.0%)
2017-02 (4 - 100.0%)
2018-09 (156 - 100.0%)
2018-10 (45 - 100.0%)
2019-04 (5 - 100.0%)
2018-12 (7 - 100.0%)
Update type No. of targets per category
  • Modified from 2012 definition (6 - 19.4%)
  • New target (24 - 77.4%)
  • Same as 2012 definition (1 - 3.2%)
  • New target (1 - 100.0%)
  • New target (12 - 100.0%)
  • Modified from 2012 definition (4 - 100.0%)
  • New target (156 - 100.0%)
  • Modified from 2012 definition (2 - 4.4%)
  • Same as 2012 definition (43 - 95.6%)
  • New target (5 - 100.0%)
  • Modified from 2012 definition (7 - 100.0%)
Related indicators No. of different indicators reported
15
12
4
6
3
1
7
Related measures No. of different measures reported
5
1
1
1
1
32
1
7