HELCOM Atlas of the Baltic Sea

Last week HELCOM released the first ever comprehensive Atlas of the Baltic Sea. HELCOM (the Helsinki Commission), also known as the Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission, is an intergovernmental organisation of all the nine Baltic Sea countries and the EU which works to protect the marine environment of the Baltic Sea.



“This book is an immense resource for all who have an interest in regional environment. It provides a quick insight into the environmental issues affecting the Baltic Sea today, while also serving as a useful foundation for a wider study of the Baltic marine environment.” – HELCOM Press release 2/6/10.

The 192-page atlas features thematic chapters providing basic information on the physical characteristics of the Baltic Sea, human activities and associated pressures, status of the marine environment and climate change. These sections are illustrated by thematic maps, diagrams and images which explains complex environmental information. The atlas also features a set of political, physical and maritime maps covering the Baltic drainage area and the sea sub-basins, as well as city through-route maps and centre plans.

The major maps were produced by ourselves - Collins Bartholomew Ltd. In a two year project, data and imagery was used by our cartographers and editors to create many of the maps seen throughout the atlas.

For further information on HELCOM and to order the atlas, visit www.helcom.fi

Today (8 June) is the UN World Oceans Day, see World Ocean Network and the World’s Oceans Project websites.

Also see Hidden Depths Atlas of the Oceans
Embark on a journey to the hidden depths of the world’s oceans. Explore the world’s last frontier through breathtaking, unique photographs from the ocean depths and state-of-the-art maps.
Unique ocean mapping and graphics with expert contribution from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The huge impact the ocean has on the land we live on is evident from the topical issues presented, these include hurricanes, pollution, tsunamis, and sea level rise.