Halfway Through BaltCOP – Wetland Restoration Delivering Results for the Baltic Sea
The WWF Baltic Sea Programme has reached the halfway point of its first EU Interreg Central Baltic project, BaltCOP (Baltic Catchment Officer Project) – marking an important milestone in efforts to reduce nutrient pollution entering the Baltic Sea.
As part of the mid-term review, project lead Mats Johansson and José Azevedo, together with Anneli Carlén and John Lund from Nyköpingsåarnas Vattenvårdsförbund, met with Samu Numminen from Interreg Central Baltic to visit the first wetland constructed within the project. Located just outside Nyköping, Sweden, the site visit provided an opportunity to see the results on the ground and discuss the restoration process directly with the landowner.
Local action with tangible impact
One of the highlights of the visit was meeting a farmer who, inspired and supported through the project’s catchment officer approach, has already established an additional wetland on his property beyond the original project plans. This demonstrates how tailored advice, long-term dialogue and practical support can empower landowners to take further voluntary action for water protection.
Wetlands as a solution to eutrophication
BaltCOP aims to reduce nutrient runoff from agriculture into the Baltic Sea by restoring and constructing wetlands in selected catchment areas. Excess nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, contribute to eutrophication – one of the most serious environmental challenges facing the Baltic Sea.
Wetlands are a powerful nature-based solution. They help to:
- Capture and retain nutrients before they reach rivers and coastal waters
- Reduce eutrophication and improve water quality
- Strengthen biodiversity
- Increase climate resilience in agricultural landscapes
A core element of BaltCOP is the catchment officer approach. Dedicated experts work closely with landowners throughout the entire process – from identifying suitable locations and navigating permits to coordinating contractors and securing funding. By building trust and offering tailored, hands-on support, catchment officers help turn environmental ambition into concrete measures on the ground.
Looking ahead
In August, the second Swedish wetland within the BaltCOP project will be inaugurated in Krämbol, Katrineholm – another important step towards healthier waters in the Baltic Sea region.
Strong partnerships, committed landowners and practical support systems are essential to scaling up wetland restoration. As BaltCOP moves into its second half, WWF and its partners remain focused on delivering measurable results for the Baltic Sea.
Photos: Mats Johansson, WWF
