The wicked problem of eutrophication – Next steps in the process towards sustainable agriculture in Finland

By Anna Törnroos-Remes

BSR Policy Briefing series 8/2023

Sustaining food production in a future climate is vital, but at the same time doing so in a way that is sustainable and particularly not contributing to nutrient pollution, that is eutrophication, is equally important. This is key, as the agriculture is still the major source of nutrient enrichment in the Baltic Sea region. The report aims to highlight next steps and measures needed in tackling eutrophication in coastal waters, by focusing on the case study of Finnish waters and particularly the agriculture sector.

First, a brief introduction is given to the wickedness of the eutrophication problem in the Baltic Sea and the current situation in Finnish waters, as well the sustainability concept. Then, an assessment of current knowledge basis and gaps based on recent national ministerial reports and programs, national and international project reports and some scientific literature is presented. Last, some key measures and next steps are outlined. The report identified two key knowledge gaps for transitioning towards more sustainable agri-environmental practices and an improved marine governance; 1) need for improved data, especially agricultural-related data such as soil nutrient values and agricultural methods applied, this also includes coordination of data availability, and 2) need for more effective collaboration and integration across sectors for improving a common knowledge base for a broader set of relevant actors than today. Both of these would facilitate rephrasing of the narrative of agriculture for the wicked problem of eutrophication and allow for inter- and transdisciplinary approaches to seek sustainable solutions to this wicked problem.