Category: Sem categoria

Mira Beach was identified, over ten years ago, as a hotspot of coastal erosion in the central region of Portugal, which led, in 2017, to the establishment of a collaboration protocol with the Municipality of Mira and the University of Aveiro.

A partnership of great importance for the Municipality of Mira, as stated by its president Artur Jorge Fresco, “What we seek with this partnership is to ensure the protection of the coast and the safety of the people. Therefore, the existence of protocols and partnerships that optimize resources is fundamental. The Municipality of Mira has always shown willingness to collaborate with the University of Aveiro, to ensure that these initiatives proceed in the best possible way.”

Initially, a first-generation prototype of coastal video monitoring was installed to study erosion in the northern part of Mira Beach, which was operational until 2023.

On April 23, a new generation of a coastal video and transmission system was installed. This new prototype incorporates more advanced video cameras, coupled with a laser system for the detection of coastal bathymetry. The combination of these technologies allows the observation of rip current formation and a better understanding of the processes associated with coastal erosion. It is an innovative platform that will help understand how erosion forms, identify the most aggressive winters, and the most vulnerable coastal locations.

The interaction between the Municipality of Mira and the University of Aveiro has been driven by several research projects from CESAM, as stated by Paulo Baganha, researcher at CESAM/DGEO, “This new monitoring platform is significantly more advanced and, currently, unique in the country with these capabilities applied to monitoring the coastal strip and erosion. It allows safeguarding the dune cordon and guiding the necessary interventions with greater efficiency.”

Highlighted in this context is the A-AAGORA Project from the Atlantic Missions, in which the video monitoring system will allow, in real time, the provision of optical shoreline assessment services, and the SHORESAFTY project, where an asymmetric topographic model will be generated that includes, for the emerged beach area, the automatic creation of the topographic model from the combination of video and laser. For the submerged part, bathymetric imprinting methods will be applied to estimate coastal bathymetry.

The research developed by the RC1 research cluster – Deep Sea, Ocean and Transitional Ecosystems of CESAM also contributes decisively to the understanding of mechanisms associated with climate change. This knowledge, transversal to the center’s scientific areas, supports the development of adaptation strategies and reinforces mitigation efforts, with emphasis on the work carried out at Mira Beach as an emblematic example of the practical application of this research.

This work is also being developed in collaboration with the company R5 Marine Solutions, responsible for implementing the developed technologies and currently an integral part of the A-AAGORA project living lab.

João Carvalho, researcher at CESAM/DBIO, featured in the latest episode of the “Science Cast” podcast

In this episode, João Carvalho discusses his academic journey and the core themes of his research, which include landscape ecology, population dynamics of wild species, and biodiversity conservation. One of the highlights of the conversation is the Iberian ibex, an iconic species of the Iberian fauna.

Once extinct in Portuguese territory, the Iberian ibex has been the focus of reintroduction and monitoring efforts in mountainous regions such as the Peneda-Gerês National Park. João Carvalho explains how his team uses advanced ecological modelling techniques and geographic information systems (GIS) to study movement patterns of this and other species, and how these are linked to habitat use. These data are crucial for understanding the viability of reintroduced populations and for planning adaptive management strategies.

During the podcast, the researcher also highlighted the importance of citizen science, encouraging the public to participate in monitoring projects.

This episode of “Science Cast” offers a clear and engaging perspective on the challenges of wildlife conservation in Portugal and underscores the vital role of science in protecting natural ecosystems.

Watch the full interview [here].

FCT has released the provisional results of the international evaluation process of R&D Units, awarding CESAM the highest rating of Excellent. The evaluation focused on the scientific and technological activities carried out between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2023, as well as on the objectives, strategy, activity plan, and organisational structure for the 2025–2029 period.

CESAM, a Research Unit of the University of Aveiro (UA), holding the status of Associate Laboratory since 2005 and rated Excellent since 2014, was one of 14 UA units to once again receive this distinction in the current evaluation exercise.

Standing out among all those evaluated in the area of Earth and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, CESAM was the only unit to receive the highest classification, thereby achieving the top national rating in this field. Other institutions evaluated in this area include the Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR, University of Porto), the Dom Luiz Institute (University of Lisbon), the Centre for Nuclear Sciences and Technologies (NOVA University Lisbon), and the Centre for Marine and Environmental Research (CIMA, University of the Algarve).

With an overall score of 15 out of 15, CESAM was also the highest-rated national research unit among those whose activity is focused, wholly or in part, on marine science, even when compared with those that submitted their application under other evaluation panels.

“This is the first time CESAM has received the maximum score across all evaluation criteria. This result consolidates and validates the strategic decisions we have made and demonstrates the international calibre of our entire team. With the ambition of establishing ourselves as a centre of international excellence in environmental and marine sciences, this evaluation serves as both recognition and encouragement in pursuing our mission: to promote transdisciplinary and transformative research that responds to environmental and marine challenges, encompassing interactions between the atmosphere, soils, rivers, transitional waters, and the ocean,” states CESAM Director, Professor Amadeu Soares.

Through both fundamental and applied research, CESAM develops sustainable solutions for the management and conservation of natural resources and biodiversity, promoting the well-being of ecosystems and humankind. Adopting the One Health approach, which recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, and considers global change processes, CESAM actively contributes to policy development and informed decision-making.

Caring for the Future.

On April 16, the University of Aveiro (UA) hosted the 4th edition of the UA Awards Ceremony, an annual event that celebrates academic excellence across various areas of university life. Among this year’s honorees, the Researcher Award was granted to José Alves from CESAM/DBIO in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the fields of ecology and biodiversity conservation.

For José Alves, the award represents more than personal recognition. “This award is only possible thanks to the support structures for research that exist at UA and, in my specific case, at CESAM,” the researcher emphasized. According to him, the distinction is above all a reflection of the collective work carried out within the institution, where the daily support of colleagues and collaborators is essential for producing high-quality science.

José Alves also highlighted the symbolic importance of the award: “This recognition places ecology and biodiversity conservation at the forefront,” noting that this is a scientific field where innovation and knowledge transfer to society occur even without patents or high technology readiness products. “It is a sign that fundamental science also deserves prominence, especially in a time when it faces serious threats,” he added.

José Alves’ research focuses on migratory birds and their complex life cycles, which span Arctic, temperate, and tropical biomes. His work, carried out in collaboration with a wide network of researchers along the East Atlantic Flyway — and more recently, in other regions — has helped advance our understanding of the ecological challenges faced by these species, while underscoring the need to protect the natural ecosystems upon which humanity depends.

“This award largely reflects the work and contribution of many collaborators,” José Alves stated, referring to master’s and PhD students, research group members, and international partners involved in his transcontinental projects.

The recognition of José Alves with the Researcher Award reaffirms CESAM’s role as a leading research unit in scientific production and its commitment to environmental sustainability. By honoring those who investigate global phenomena with local impact, the University helps ensure that the knowledge generated extends beyond academia and serves the broader society.

Portugal Takes a Decisive Step in Transforming Its Ocean Economy. In a recent report, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) outlined a comprehensive strategy to enhance policy coherence and strengthen Portugal’s institutional capacity in the maritime sector.

The document, titled “Improving Policy Coherence for Portugal’s Ocean Economy: A Strategic Plan for Natural Resources, Safety and Maritime Services”, stems from a two-year project carried out in collaboration with the Portuguese Government, the European Commission, and a range of public and private stakeholders.

The report comes at a critical moment, as Portugal prepares to implement its Strategic Ocean Plan 2030, led by the Directorate-General for Natural Resources, Safety and Maritime Services (DGRM), under the Ministry of Economy and Maritime Affairs. The objective is clear: to place the blue economy at the heart of the country’s sustainable development strategy.

With jurisdiction over around 50% of the EU’s marine waters and a vast area of the Northeast Atlantic under management, Portugal is naturally positioned as an ocean power. The OECD highlights the country’s strategic relevance in promoting global maritime sustainability, noting that the ocean economy accounts for 3.4% of global GDP — a major asset and a shared responsibility.

Despite its vast potential, Portugal’s maritime sector faces significant governance challenges. The OECD identifies institutional limitations and intersectoral conflicts, such as between the expansion of offshore wind energy and traditional fishing activities.

The DGRM, the central body in Portuguese maritime administration, holds overlapping responsibilities in areas such as safety, fisheries, aquaculture, and maritime spatial planning. The report warns that such fragmentation undermines the effectiveness of public action and limits the country’s response to emerging challenges.

To drive structural transformation, the OECD puts forward six strategic recommendations:

• Apply the PCSD approach (Policy Coherence for Sustainable Development): Integrate the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into national strategies and operations.
• Transform the DGRM into an autonomous agency: Improve execution capacity and coordination across ministries.
• Increase investment in human and financial resources: Prioritise training and recruitment, especially in areas such as environmental monitoring and digitalisation.
• Accelerate digital transition: Create real-time data platforms and ensure system interoperability.
• Implement pilot projects: Test new approaches in critical areas such as aquaculture and maritime spatial planning.
• Foster institutional leadership: Ensure that sustainability principles are central to ocean governance.

In this transformative context, scientific institutions play a key role. The CESAM — Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies at the University of Aveiro — has increasingly become a cornerstone of interdisciplinary ocean research, following the One Health approach, which recognises the interdependence of human, animal and environmental health. This approach also takes into account global change processes, contributing actively to public policy development and informed decision-making.

The research developed at CESAM aligns with the European Union’s mission to “Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030”, and constitutes a significant scientific and strategic contribution to Portugal’s blue economy.

The University of Aveiro and CESAM’s investments in marine research infrastructure have been particularly relevant in areas such as circular economy, multitrophic aquaculture, and sustainable marine resource management. These efforts are connected to the following research clusters:

• RC1 – Deep Sea, Ocean and Transitional Ecosystems
• RC3 – Oceanic and Atmospheric Modelling
• RC4 – Ecosystem Management and Conservation
• RC6 – Circular Economy, Resource Optimisation and Energy

The integration of science, innovation and public policy — promoted by centres such as CESAM — strengthens national capacity to address ocean-related challenges with integrated and sustainable solutions.

With the National Ocean Strategy 2021–2030 underway, the OECD report emphasises the unique opportunity to institutionalise innovative and sustainable practices. The successful implementation of this plan could position Portugal as an international leader in ocean governance.

As the United Nations Ocean Conference approaches — scheduled for 2025 in Nice — Portugal has the chance to lead by example, showing how economic development, scientific knowledge, and environmental preservation can be brought together in an integrated vision for the oceans.

National Air Day was established in 2019 and is celebrated annually on April 12, with the aim of reflecting on the importance of the air we breathe and the challenges we face in preventing its degradation. This day emerged as a response to growing concerns about air pollution and its impacts on public health and the environment. Its creation seeks to raise awareness among the population and policymakers about the need for effective measures to reduce pollutant emissions and improve air quality.

Currently, air pollution is the leading environmental cause of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, it is responsible for around 7 million premature deaths every year. Prolonged exposure to atmospheric pollutants is associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as developmental problems in children, making coordinated action to address this issue urgent.

In Portugal, several academic and scientific institutions have been conducting research in the field of air quality, contributing to a better understanding of pollution impacts and to the implementation of more sustainable solutions. The Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) at the University of Aveiro stands out in this area, being one of the leading research centers on air quality in the country. CESAM researchers work on the development of predictive air quality models, pollution monitoring, and the definition of strategies to mitigate its harmful effects.

A survey on Portugal’s involvement in European air quality research projects (CORDIS platform) revealed that, out of a total of 92 projects, the University of Aveiro leads with participation in 10 funded projects in this area, followed by the NOVA University of Lisbon with involvement in 4 projects.

These figures reflect the ongoing effort of Portuguese scientific institutions to address the issue of air pollution and contribute to improving the quality of the air we breathe. However, this alone is not enough — a collective commitment to research, public awareness and engagement, and the implementation of effective policies is essential for a healthier and more sustainable future for all.

CESAM carries out cutting-edge research in the field of air quality through its RC3 – Oceanic and Atmospheric Modelling cluster. This research cluster focuses on air quality monitoring and forecasting, studying its sources and impacts, and defining strategies for its mitigation. The cluster’s interdisciplinary approach enables CESAM to actively contribute to the development of public policies.

The Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) at the University of Aveiro (UA) is proud to play a key role in shaping the Portuguese Pavilion at EXPO 2025 Osaka, under the theme “Blue Resilience Dialogue – Ocean.” This theme was chosen to highlight Portugal’s leadership in the scientific and economic exploration of the ocean, showcasing its central role in shaping past, present, and future international relations and driving sustainable development.

“Our participation in EXPO 2025 Osaka is a testament to the University of Aveiro’s commitment to ocean knowledge, cutting-edge innovation in blue biotechnology, and international cooperation,” said Helena Vieira, researcher from CESAM/DAO and team leader. Her remarks were echoed by CESAM’s director, Amadeu Soares: “This is a unique opportunity to share our science with the world and to inspire new connections around sustainable futures for the ocean.”

As part of a national effort to emphasize Portugal’s deep-rooted connection to the sea, CESAM/UA contributed to the Pavilion’s conceptual and scientific development, with a special focus on the promising field of blue biotechnology. Building on the University’s cutting-edge research and innovation in this area, CESAM/UA provided a wide range of materials, including concepts, texts, images, videos, and national success stories, that demonstrate Portugal’s advances in the sustainable use of marine bioresources, the development of new bioproducts, and ocean-based solutions to global challenges.

Blue biotechnology, one of the most dynamic and fast-growing sectors of the blue economy, features prominently in the Pavilion’s narrative. Thanks to CESAM/UA’s contributions, international visitors will discover how marine organisms are being used to develop new pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food products, and innovative environmental technologies, supported by real-world examples from Portuguese research and industry.

Under the motto “The Ocean as a Global Future,” the Portuguese Pavilion will offer millions of visitors from around the world an interactive experience that explores how the ocean shapes cultures and economies and underpins the planet’s resilience. EXPO 2025 will take place from April to October on Yumeshima Island, Japan, and is expected to attract more than 28 million visitors.

For more information about CESAM/UA work in blue biotechnology, visit www-cesam-la.pt/en

The peel and seed of the avocado contain valuable bioactive compounds, offering a sustainable alternative with health benefits and potential applications across various industrial sectors. This finding comes from a team of researchers at the University of Aveiro (UA) who, in a second phase of the project, aim to promote the more sustainable use of avocado waste by transforming it into high-value ingredients for use in the food, cosmetic, and nutraceutical industries.

The research results revealed that the by-products of the Hass avocado, the most widely produced and consumed variety globally, particularly its peel, are rich in biomolecules with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. “Among the most relevant biomolecules are fats such as essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as more complex lipids that carry these fatty acids,” explains Bruna Neves, a researcher at the Lipidomics Laboratory of the Department of Chemistry at UA. She co-authored the study with fellow researcher Tânia Melo and Professor Maria Rosário Domingues.

For the first time, lipids rich in essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids have been identified in Hass avocados. Interestingly, Neves notes, “the avocado peel contains a higher amount of omega-3 fats, while the seed is predominantly rich in omega-6 fatty acids.” Furthermore, “these by-products are also rich in oleic acid, just like olive oil, making these fats particularly beneficial for health.”

Thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and their richness in omega-3, -6, and -9 fats, Bruna Neves emphasizes that “avocado peel and seed may help prevent cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, thereby supporting heart and brain health and reducing premature aging, while also benefiting skin health.”

The Lipidomics Laboratory team at UA highlights that avocado peel and seed are excellent candidates for use as sources of nutritional and bioactive ingredients in both food and cosmetic products.

“These by-products can serve as sources of natural antioxidants, replacing synthetic ones, and thus extending shelf life and improving oxidative stability in food items, creams, and natural cosmetics,” the researchers add.

Additionally, the peel and seed can be used as emulsifier sources, contributing to the development of more eco-friendly foods and cosmetics. They can also be used as sources of value-added compounds in various formulations (oils, capsules, or ampoules), delivering active ingredients that enhance the nutritional and nutraceutical properties of products. As Neves points out, “by reusing these by-products, we not only reduce waste and support the environment, but we also promote a circular and sustainable economy, taking full advantage of what the avocado has to offer.”

This research presents findings from one of the research lines of Bruna Neves’ PhD project, titled “Valorization of Portuguese AVOcado as a source of high added-value BIoactive lipids using OMICS-based approaches.”

Original source: Notícias UA, April 8, 2025

On March 24, researcher Goreti Pereira, from CESAM (Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies) and the Department of Chemistry at the University of Aveiro, returned to her hometown of Braga to take part in the “Scientist Returns to School” program, an initiative promoted by the organization Native Scientists. The activity took place at EB Bairro Económico and EB Santa Tecla schools and offered a very special session aimed at inspiring students through science and the personal journey of a researcher who once attended schools just like theirs.

During the workshop, Goreti Pereira addressed a highly relevant and pressing topic: water contamination by pharmaceuticals. She explained in a clear and accessible way how the widespread use of medications – in both human and veterinary medicine – has led to the recurring presence of pharmaceutical residues in aquatic systems, due to the incomplete elimination of these compounds in wastewater treatment plants. Many of these contaminants are not effectively removed by conventional treatment methods, accumulating in natural environments and potentially affecting aquatic organisms, ecosystems, and even human health, through the water we consume. The researcher also shared the progress her research group has made in developing more efficient and sustainable technologies to remove these emerging pollutants from water, contributing to innovative and environmentally safe solutions.

This initiative by Native Scientists aims to bring science closer to children, promoting dialogue between scientists and students in school settings and sparking interest in scientific research from an early age. The involvement of scientists like Goreti Pereira in such projects is crucial to fostering a more informed, critical, and curious society, and to reinforcing the transformative role of science in building a more sustainable future.

CESAM Researcher Rosa Freitas, professor in the Department of Biology (DBIO) at the University of Aveiro (UA), is the guest on the latest episode of the “Science Cast” podcast, where she shares her expertise and recent scientific developments in the field of marine biology.

Titled “Riding the Tide: Bivalves, Pollutants, and Climate Change”, the episode highlights the work Rosa Freitas has been developing over recent years, focusing on the study of bivalves and how these marine organisms respond to the increasing pressure of emerging pollutants and climate change.

The researcher was the coordinator of major projects such as “BISPECIAI” and “COCKLES”, which aimed to assess the impact of multiple environmental stressors on these species. The objective of her work is to generate scientific knowledge that supports conservation strategies, promotes sustainable solutions, and contributes to the resilience of marine ecosystems.

“Bivalves are true environmental sentinels,” states Rosa Freitas on the podcast, emphasizing the importance of these organisms as indicators of coastal ecosystem health. Her research provides valuable insights into how transitional ecosystems, such as estuaries, are responding to human activity and climate change.

The episode is available on all major streaming platforms and on Science Cast’s social media, offering the public an engaging and accessible look at the science being developed in Portugal.

Don’t miss this episode and discover how Portuguese science is tackling today’s environmental challenges.

Watch the full interview here