The BalticSTERN Secretariat coordinates the research of the network and communicates the results. Based on research in the network and other relevant studies, the Secretariat will make a synthesis report directed to decision makers to be published in 2012.

Through constructing and combining ecological and economic models, different options for managing the environmental risks threatening the Baltic Sea will be analyzed. BaltivSTERN will advance the understanding of the benefits of an improved marine environment by linking changes in ecosystem services with changes in human welfare. Costs for and effects of different measures will be evaluated and cost effective measures identified. An aim is also to contribute to the science-policy dialogue on the management of the Baltic Sea and to discuss policy instruments for reaching environmental targets.