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This interdisciplinary event brings together researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders to explore the multifaceted dynamics of the Baltic Sea and its catchment, examining the rich history, current functioning, and future prospects of this region. Over the course of the conference, we will delve into critical topics distributed among seven thematic sessions covering a wide range of disciplines and addressing fundamental scientific problems and environmental challenges. By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and international collaboration, we aim to generate innovative solutions to preserve and protect the unique marine environment of the Baltic Sea for generations to come. Join us to share your knowledge, insights, and strategies to ensure a sustainable future for this vital ecosystem.
*** The call for abstracts is now open! To submit an abstract for BSSC 2025 please click here ***
*** The registration is now open! To register for BSSC 2025 please click here ***
NoticeCall for Abstracts: 10 December 2024
Registration Open: 15 January 2025
Abstract Submission Deadline: 21 February 2025
Acceptance Notification: 21 March 2025
Early Bird Registration Deadline: 31 March 2025
Registration Deadline: 14 April 2025
Conference Days: 26-30 May 2025 (from early afternoon on 26th until around lunchtime on 30th May)
Abstract submission opens on 10 December 2024, while registration begins on 15 January 2025. We welcome abstracts of a maximum length of 400 words. For organizational reasons, we accept a maximum of 2 abstracts per presenter. *** To submit an abstract for BSSC 2025 please click here ***
Registration takes place via Oxford Abstracts, where you can choose from various payment methods (credit card, bank transfer).
*** The registration is now open! To register for BSSC 2025 please click here ***
Cancelation terms
Any cancellation should be notified in writing to bssc@iopan.pl and will be subjected to the following conditions:
All prices given above are gross prices and include VAT.
VAT: tax exemption according to art. 43, section 1, point 26 of the Act on Goods and Services Tax and § 13, section 1, point 19 of the Regulation of the Minister of Finance of April 4, 2011, on the implementation of certain provisions of the Act on Goods and Services Tax.
1. Physical and Biogeochemical Changes in the Baltic Sea
This session aims to investigate both natural and anthropogenic changes in the physical and biogeochemical functioning
of the Baltic Sea across different time scales, including past conditions, current observations, and future projections.
We invite research that examines alterations in the physical environment, including salinity and temperature dynamics,
water column stratification, sea level rise, light availability etc. Additionally, we welcome studies investigating all
aspects of organic matter's production, alteration, and remineralisation, including processes occurring both in the water
column and sediments as well as under oxic and anoxic conditions. Contributions specifically addressing eutrophication
and oxygen deficits, as well as those exploring climate change-driven impacts, are particularly welcome. We encourage
the use of diverse methodologies and tools, including paleoceanographic reconstructions, various modelling approaches,
in situ and remote observations and data analysis from long-term monitoring programmes. By examining changes occurring
across different time and spatial scales, this session seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolving
Baltic Sea and to inform effective management and conservation strategies.
2. Ecosystem Health and Biodiversity
This session aims to explore the interrelationship between ecosystem health and biodiversity in the Baltic Sea region,
focusing on how changes in biological diversity affect ecosystem stability and resilience. We welcome research that
evaluates indicators of ecosystem health, including species composition (from micro- to macroorganisms), food-web structure,
habitat quality, ecological functions, and cumulative effects assessments. Contributions that document biological diversity,
assess habitat health, and identify threats posed by climate change, ocean acidification, oxygen deficits, eutrophication,
invasive species, pathogenic and antimicrobial resistant (AMR) microbes, and other human activities are particularly encouraged.
Additionally, studies that highlight the role of biodiversity in enhancing ecosystem resilience to environmental changes
will be highly valued. Through this session, we seek to foster collaborative discussions that advance our understanding
of the importance of biodiversity in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems and inform effective conservation and management
strategies.
3. Geological Processes and Coastal Erosion
This session investigates the geological processes that contribute to marine sedimentation, coastal erosion, and the overall
reshaping of the Baltic Sea's coastline and seabed. We invite research that examines natural factors such as wave action,
sediment transport, and seabed geology, as well as anthropogenic influences like coastal development and climate change.
Contributions focusing on stratigraphic analysis, sedimentation and erosion patterns and their effects on coastal ecosystems
and habitats are particularly welcome. Additionally, studies exploring the interplay between erosion and sediment dynamics,
as well as mitigation strategies and sustainable practices for managing coastal changes, will be highly valued. Through
this session, we aim to enhance our understanding of the Baltic Sea geology, and coastal dynamics and promote effective
approaches to preserving the integrity of the Baltic Sea’s shorelines.
4. Land-Ocean-Atmosphere Interactions and Catchment Processes
This session focuses on the complex interactions between terrestrial, marine and atmospheric systems in the Baltic Sea region,
emphasising the impact of climate change as well as catchment and large-scale atmospheric processes such as NAO on marine
ecosystems. We invite studies that examine how past and present land use, agricultural practices, and urban development
influence nutrient runoff, sediment transport, and pollution in marine waters as well as affect marine biodiversity, habitat
quality, and ecosystem services. Contributions that assess the functioning of coastal filter, including the role of microorganisms,
in modifying terrestrial loads, carbon burial (blue carbon) and nutrient cycling in shallow regions are particularly welcome.
Additionally, research exploring the future scenarios of external forcings, integrated management strategies and stakeholder
collaboration in addressing these multifaceted interactions including promoting sustainable practices in catchment areas will
be encouraged. By fostering an interdisciplinary dialogue, this session aims to enhance our understanding of land-ocean-atmosphere
dynamics and inform policies for sustainable and holistic ecosystem management in the Baltic Sea region.
5. Marine Pollution: Sources, Trends, Effects and Solutions
This session aims to investigate the various aspects of marine pollution affecting the Baltic Sea, encompassing issues such
as plastic pollution, dumped munition, shipwrecks, drifting fishing nets, oil spills, shipping- and industry-related pollution,
including noise, and hazardous chemicals. We welcome studies that identify key pollutants and their mixtures, including emerging
ones, provide data on pollution levels, and assess their impacts on marine life and ecosystem health. Contributions that explore
microbial players in processing pollutants, innovative solutions and remediation strategies, including policy initiatives and
technological advancements, are highly encouraged. Additionally, research highlighting the role of public awareness campaigns
and community engagement in addressing pollution challenges will be valuable. By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, this
session seeks to identify effective approaches to monitor and combat marine pollution and promote a healthier Baltic Sea environment.
6. Exploitation of ecosystem services and its impact on the Baltic Sea ecosystem
This session seeks to explore the sustainable use and exploitation of ecosystem services provided by the Baltic Sea, including
fisheries, tourism, shipping, and industrial development e.g. expansion of ports, offshore wind farms, oil and gas mining,
nuclear power plants, submarine pipelines and power lines. Research contributions are expected to analyse the ecological,
biogeochemical, economic, and social impacts of these activities on marine biodiversity and habitat integrity. We welcome
studies that assess the trade-offs between economic benefits and environmental health, highlighting both positive and negative
consequences of human activities. Furthermore, discussions on effective management strategies and policy frameworks including
marine spatial planning aimed at mitigating adverse impacts while maximizing the sustainable use of ecosystem services will
be encouraged. Contributions that incorporate stakeholder perspectives and community engagement in ecosystem service management
are particularly valued.
7. Emerging Technologies for Research and Monitoring
This session focuses on innovative technologies developed and implemented for research and monitoring of the Baltic Sea ecosystem
and other marginal seas. We encourage contributions on research and development that utilize sensors, drifting floats, automatic
buoys and moorings, underwater drones and robots, remote sensing as well as new sophisticated analytical and monitoring methods
including eDNA studies and application of monitoring organisms to capture and analyse environmental changes. Contributions that
demonstrate the application of advanced data analytics and modelling, machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI)
in processing large datasets or enhancing predictive and operational models will be particularly welcome. Additionally, research
highlighting the integration of citizen science initiatives with technological advancements to engage local communities in
environmental monitoring is encouraged. Through this session, we aim to explore the potential of emerging technologies to enhance
our understanding of the Baltic Sea ecosystem and other shelf seas and inform effective management practices.
Karol Kuliński Katarzyna Koziorowska-Makuch Agnieszka Jędruch Aleksandra Kaszuba-Rakowska Joanna Potrykus Ewa Korejwo Aleksandra Adamska Marcin Wichorowski Sławomir Sagan
To contact Organizing Committe please write to bssc@iopan.pl
The conference will be held at the Radisson BLU Hotel & Conference Center in Sopot, the largest hotel conference venue in the Tri-City. The center features spacious facilities surrounded by greenery and offers rooms equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, advanced sound systems, and comprehensive technical amenities.
Radisson BLU Hotel ****
Bitwy pod Płowcami 54, 81-731 Sopot
https://www.radissonblusopot.pl/en/