Posted on November, 02 2005

Stockholm, Sweden – Swedish financier Björn Carlson has established a foundation to alleviate environmental problems in and around the Baltic Sea. 

Through his SEK500 million (US$62.6 million) donation, the newly founded Björn Carlson Foundation for the Baltic Sea will support interdisciplinary projects and creative initiatives that encourage Baltic Sea conservation. 
 
“Through my donation I expect to see concrete measures and results in 10-12 years' time, not just investigations," said Björn Carlson. “Investments based on wise decisions and good research could turn the tide of negative developments in the Baltic Sea.” 
 
Funds will be invested in innovative research and experiments through the establishment of networks of researchers with different expertise. Large-scale experiments are also planned and will involve using regional scientists and researchers, as well as encouraging the participation of young scientists. 
 
"The Baltic Sea is in crisis and has been for many years,” said Lars Kristoferson, WWF-Sweden’s Secretary General.
 
“The significant donation and the new Foundation, created to ensure a brighter future for the Baltic Sea, is an exciting development both for the sea and for all those who have been working so hard to save its unique environment." 

The board of the Björn Carlson Foundation for the Baltic Sea will be chosen in close cooperation with WWF-Sweden (which will be represented by two members — Marie Berglund and Lars Kristoferson) and the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. A scientific council will also be selected. 
 
"WWF is happy to hold two seats on the Foundation's board of directors,” added Kristoferson. “These positions demonstrate the external confidence that we have created from our work in the Baltic Sea region. Together we can make a difference and deliver real solutions in the Baltic Sea.”  
 
Through WWF’s Baltic Ecoregion Programme, based in Sweden, the global conservation organization is developing innovative approaches together with individuals, communities, organisations, companies and governments to restore, conserve and sustainably use the riches of the Baltic Sea. 
 
For further information:
Marie von Zeipel, Press Officer
WWF-Sweden
Tel: +46 8 624 74 03