The University of Helsinki has renewed its commitment to the Baltic Sea. The commitment spanning 2024-2028 emphasises cross-disciplinary research and investment in the promotion of biodiversity and circular economy solutions.
The University of Helsinki has been involved in the Baltic Sea Challenge since its inception in 2007. With this renewed commitment, the University promotes its dedication to the conservation of waters and seas. The commitment will also further strengthen the cooperation between the University and City of Helsinki.
"The University of Helsinki wants to be a leader in sustainability and responsibility. We are committed to promoting biodiversity and developing circular economy solutions that also support the wellbeing of the Baltic Sea," says Anne Portaankorva, Vice-Rector for sustainability and responsibility.
With the new commitment, the University will consolidate proven good practices and highlight its investments in cross-disciplinary research and sustainability solutions, which aim at attaining increasingly impactful results in Baltic Sea conservation.
Interdisciplinary cooperation strengthens marine research
Among other things, the University of Helsinki strengthens interdisciplinary research through the Resilient and Just Systems (RESET) project, where research on sustainable water systems plays a key role. The project combines life and social sciences while offering sustainable and fair solutions to improve systemic resilience.
The University also invests in teaching related to marine ecosystems. The Sustainable Management of Marine Environments study module also emphasises the connection between studies and praxis.
"As a part of the module, we collaborate with companies and other operators in organising a project course during which students solve practical issues and challenges presented by our partners," says Kari Hyytiäinen, Professor of the Economics of Baltic Sea Protection.
The development of the Viikki Campus innovation hub will continue in collaboration with the City of Helsinki. The sustainable food theme of the hub will also be linked with Baltic Sea research. In addition, joint science communication and organisation of events together with the City of Helsinki will continue.
The University will also continue to participate in the activities of the local-level Baltic Sea panel. The panel is a multidisciplinary expert panel established by the cities of Helsinki and Turku, which raises topical Baltic Sea issues for public debate, serves as a connection between operators and encourages action to protect the Baltic Sea.
Baltic Sea conservation through the development of University's own operations
Baltic Sea conservation is also promoted through the daily activities of the University. For example, the University has invested in more sustainable construction and sorting while also continuously developing sorting opportunities in University facilities in order to decrease environmental impact. The University's commitment to renewable energy aims at increasing the amount of self-generated renewable energy. Moreover, the projects linked to the development of campuses being prepared currently emphasise preserving and promoting biodiversity on the University campuses.
