Such services are based on strong atmospheric and marine research and high-quality observations, as well as customer-orientation. All of these activities are strongly linked with a transnational character.

Research is an important part of social activity and understanding of the state of the environment

Marine research focuses on observing and predicting the state of the seas, changes in the sea and ice conditions, and the interaction between the sea and the atmosphere. Practical topics include safe shipping and coastal construction. Polar oceanography and sea ice are also being studied. The Finnish Meteorological Institute is also responsible for the physical monitoring of the state of the Baltic Sea.

Based on the research, forecasting methods and operational models and services are developed to better understand shipping, other social activities, and the state of the environment. For example, data on the nature of water level fluctuations both locally and globally can be used along the coast to determine safe elevation heights for locating buildings. Further, remote-sensing methods and ice models reflecting the structure, dynamics, and ice thickness are being developed to improve the safety of winter navigation. For example, drift models can be used for damage prevention in the case of oil and chemical spills.

Oceanographic services provide versatile data and utilities

Oceanographic services include real-time observations, forecasts, and analyses, as well as expert services. These services are provided to both professionals and citizens alike. The most used real-time utilities involve ice conditions, sea levels, and wave heights. Further, various surveys, targeted measurements, and customised models serve both public and private coastal planning, as well as the needs of the energy sector.