The Baltic Sea is one of the most studied seas in the world. The environmental problems are well known. The main threats derive from eutrophication, hazardous substances, over-fishing and maritime transport. The Baltic Sea is surrounded by some of the world’s most environmentally conscious societies. And scientists all agree on the most important steps to take. Still, in many respects, the state of this sensitive and almost landlocked sea is deteriorating.

The efforts to save the sea are spoiled by national disagreements and short-term interest.

The future and life quality of 90 million people are affected by the Baltic Sea environment. The next ten years will be critical. Can we save the sea that ties us together?

Filmmakers Mattias Klum and Folke Rydén are spending the next ten years documenting the efforts to save the Baltic Sea. Focusing on the decision-making processes for environmental, scientific and political issues, the aim is to produce a television documentary every other year in cooperation with public service broadcasters around the region. The first programme will be completed in the autumn of 2009.

At the same time, production of an international feature documentary will begin (for release in 2017) as well as creation of a range of interactive educational material for use in the whole Baltic region.

The project has applied for funding from the Baltic Sea 2020 foundation and has already been granted support until 2009. The intention is to further finance the project through various other European television companies and film funds.