The Baltic Sea
The Baltic Sea is a brackish sea located in Northern Europe, bounded by the Scandinavian Peninsula, the mainland of Europe, and the Danish islands. It covers an area of approximately 377,000 square kilometers and is one of the largest brackish water bodies in the world. The Baltic Sea is connected to the North Sea through the Danish straits, which include the Great Belt, the Little Belt, and the Sound.
Geographic Location
The Baltic Sea is located in Northern Europe and is surrounded by nine countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, and Sweden. The sea is shaped like a long and narrow rectangle, with the Gulf of Bothnia in the north and the Gulf of Gdansk in the south. The sea’s coastlines are characterized by rocky shores, sandy beaches, and hundreds of islands.
Which Two Countries?
There are two countries that have coastlines along the Baltic Sea: Sweden and Finland.
Country 1: Sweden
Sweden is a country located in Northern Europe, with a population of about 10 million people. Its coastline along the Baltic Sea stretches for about 2,700 kilometers, making it the longest coastline of any country in the Baltic Sea region. Sweden’s coastline is characterized by thousands of islands, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches.
Sweden’s Coastline
Sweden’s coastline along the Baltic Sea is known for its natural beauty and diversity. The Stockholm Archipelago, located in the eastern part of the country, is home to over 24,000 islands, islets, and skerries. The archipelago is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering opportunities for boating, kayaking, swimming, and hiking. The coastline also includes several national parks, such as the Kosterhavet National Park and the Gotska Sandön National Park, which are known for their unique flora and fauna.
Country 2: Finland
Finland is a country located in Northern Europe, with a population of about 5.5 million people. Its coastline along the Baltic Sea stretches for about 1,100 kilometers, making it the second-longest coastline of any country in the Baltic Sea region.
Country 2’s Coastline
Finland’s coastline along the Baltic Sea is characterized by rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and numerous islands. The Åland Islands, located between Sweden and Finland, are an autonomous region of Finland and are known for their beautiful archipelago and unique culture. The coastline also includes several national parks, such as the Archipelago National Park and the Bothnian Sea National Park, which are known for their diverse marine life and bird populations.
Comparison of Coastlines
Sweden’s coastline along the Baltic Sea is significantly longer than Finland’s, and includes more islands and national parks. However, both countries’ coastlines offer unique natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Importance of the Baltic Sea
The Baltic Sea is an important body of water in Northern Europe, with significant economic and environmental importance.
Economic Significance
The Baltic Sea is an important waterway for shipping and trade, connecting Northern Europe to the rest of the world. The sea is home to several major ports, including the ports of Gothenburg, Helsinki, Rostock, and Gdansk. The Baltic Sea is also an important fishing ground, supporting a significant commercial fishing industry.
Environmental Concerns
The Baltic Sea is facing several environmental challenges, including eutrophication, pollution, and climate change. The sea is highly vulnerable to pollution due to its shallow depth and slow water exchange. Eutrophication, caused by excessive nutrient runoff from agriculture and wastewater, has led to harmful algal blooms and oxygen depletion in the sea. Climate change is also affecting the Baltic Sea, leading to rising sea levels, warming waters, and changes in marine ecosystems.
Conclusion: The Baltic Sea and its Coastal Countries
The Baltic Sea is an important body of water in Northern Europe, connecting countries and supporting significant economic and environmental activities. Sweden and Finland are two countries that have coastlines along the Baltic Sea, offering unique natural beauty and recreational opportunities. However, the Baltic Sea is facing significant environmental challenges that require cooperation and action from all countries in the region.
