Porträtt Henrik Svedäng — Henrik Svedäng är docent i marin ekologi på Östersjöcentrum vid Stockholms universitet och vetenskaplig samordnare på Havsmiljöinstitutet vid Göteborgs universitet.

Photo: Björn Carlsons Östersjöpris

Henrik Svedäng receives Björn Carlsons Östersjöpris

Published

19 August 2026

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Henrik Svedäng, Associate Professor of Marine Ecology and scientific coordinator at the Institute for Marine Environment at the University of Gothenburg, has been awarded the 2026 Björn Carlson Baltic Sea Prize.
“I feel very honoured. I see it as recognition both of my marine research and of my efforts to contribute to the public debate on the state of fish stocks and how they are managed,” he says.

Henrik Svedäng is being awarded the prize for his pioneering research in marine ecology, fisheries science and ecosystem-based management. Through his work to raise awareness amongst decision-makers, non-profit organisations, the media and the general public, his research extends far beyond academia. This has made him one of the Baltic Sea region’s most influential voices for sustainable fisheries and a thriving ecosystem.

On 15 September, Henrik Svedäng will receive the prize at a ceremony in Stockholm. The prize money of five million kronor will be used to continue his research towards a healthier Baltic Sea.

“The prize gives me continued and expanded opportunities to develop my research into the dynamics of fish populations, including how they are divided into separate stocks and how this structure is maintained in the marine environment,” says Henrik Svedäng.

A strong voice in the public debate

For several decades, Henrik Svedäng has contributed to a better understanding of how fish populations function and how they are affected by fishing and changes in the marine environment. His research has provided important insights into, amongst other things, the population structure, migration patterns, growth and long-term trends of cod and herring.

A central aspect of his research is the view of fish as a fundamental part of the marine ecosystem – not merely as a resource to be exploited. This knowledge has been of great significance for the development of a more ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management and the conservation of biodiversity.

– Henrik Svedäng has consistently demonstrated why knowledge about fish populations is essential to the future of the Baltic Sea. His research has not only advanced scientific understanding, but also highlighted the connections between fisheries, biodiversity and a functioning ecosystem. This combination of scientific excellence, public engagement, and policy influence, makes him a highly deserving recipient of the prize, says Bo Lehander, Chair of Björn Carlsons Östersjöstiftelse.

About Björn Carlsons Östersjöpris

Björn Carlsons Östersjöpris was established by Björn Carlsons Östersjöstiftelse (BalticSea2020) to recognise and facilitate initiatives that contribute to a healthier Baltic Sea. The prize is awarded annually to researchers or other individuals who, through research, the dissemination of knowledge or policy work, have made significant contributions to the Baltic Sea’s environment. The aim is both to reward outstanding achievements and to create the conditions for continued work on behalf of the marine environment.

Since 2026, the prize money has amounted to 5 million Swedish kronor, of which 90 per cent is to be used for further research or activities, whilst 10 per cent goes to the laureate personally.

Area

Sustainability and environment Ocean Science and Information Technology

Henrik Svedäng receives Björn Carlsons Östersjöpris

A strong voice in the public debate

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