Baseline Report on Marine Digital Twins and Green Shipping Corridors in the Baltic Sea Region

The Baltic Sea is one of the most intensively trafficked maritime regions in the world, contributing significantly to global shipping emissions. With ferries alone responsible for a disproportionate share of regional CO₂ output, the urgency for sustainable transformation is clear. Under the Estonian Presidency of the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS), efforts to reduce the maritime sector’s environmental footprint have advanced through strategic initiatives focused on green shipping corridors and the exploration of marine digital twins.

This report presents key findings from a comprehensive survey conducted during the Estonian Presidency. It outlines the current landscape of marine data collection in the region, assesses the feasibility of a unified Baltic Sea Region marine digital twin, and showcases innovative practices in green shipping. Most importantly, it emphasizes the need for intentional, collaborative action to ensure a resilient, competitive, and climate-smart maritime future for the region.

By mapping out both challenges and solutions, this report aims to inform and inspire coordinated efforts that align with the CBSS vision of a Sustainable and Prosperous Region.