At the end of the project Baltic Sea matters, Oriveden yhteiskoulu organized a Baltic Sea info at the school 15 May 2025. Pupils and teachers had the possibility to learn more about the protection of the Baltic Sea. 



Throwing litter on the ground in Orivesi - does it really matter to Baltic Sea?

Yes, absolutely! 

Orivesi is located within the larger catchment area of the Baltic Sea. This means that water from rainfall and melting snow in Orivesi eventually flows into rivers and streams, which then lead to the Baltic Sea. When litter is thrown on the ground, it can be washed into storm drains and local waterways by rain. From there, it travels through the network of rivers and eventually reaches the Baltic Sea.

This litter, especially plastics, can break down into microplastics, harming marine life and ecosystems. Even organic waste contributes to nutrient loads, which can worsen eutrophication in the sea. Therefore, every piece of litter discarded in Orivesi has the potential to contribute to pollution in the Baltic Sea.

Think the Baltic Sea is too far away to be affected by your actions inland?

Think again.

Every piece of litter, every dropped wrapper, every forgotten plastic bag on the ground in our towns and cities has a journey – and often, that journey leads straight to the Baltic Sea.

We've all seen litter, but do we truly understand its impact? Our video "Baltic Sea matters" features an insightful explanation from our teacher who breaks down the connection between inland waste and the health of this vital marine ecosystem. You'll learn how rain, rivers, and drainage systems act as pathways, carrying pollutants from our streets directly into the Baltic Sea.

We live in the Baltic Sea's catchment area, and our choices, no matter how small they seem, ripple outwards to affect its well-being. Watch now and discover why protecting the Baltic Sea starts right here, with us! 

VIDEO: Baltic Sea matters!