SDG 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development (2023)

Our task is to reconcile the sustainable use of water resources with the pursuit of a healthy aquatic environment. Water is important not only for commercial purposes but also for human wellbeing, recreation and health.

We produce up-to-date research data on professional and recreational fishing, monitor the state of fish populations, promote their vitality and provide expert advice and support for decision makers based on scientific data. We support and modernise the sustainable fisheries and aquaculture sectors using research-based solutions.

In 2023, Baltic herring became a hot topic when the European Commission proposed the fishing of Baltic herring in the Gulf of Bothnia and the Baltic Proper to be discontinued in 2024. This was based on estimates, according to which the fishing of Baltic herring in the Gulf of Bothnia and the Baltic Proper would reduce the remaining population so that it would be insufficient to ensure fry production.

We monitor the state of Baltic herring populations through annual surveys in the Baltic Sea. Our research scientists participated actively in discussions of the state of Baltic herring populations. According to monitoring data, the Baltic herring situation was at its worst at the beginning of this decade. In 2023, populations were significantly stronger which is why our research scientists did not find the full ban on the fishing of Baltic herring necessary.

As examples of our activities to promote SDG 14, we present our fish population operations and the “Trout story” campaign, the goal of which was to increase people’s awareness of the poor situation involving migratory fish and the importance of protecting biodiversity in flowing waters.