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On the 6th of September, the Research Vessel Mário Ruivo made a stop at the Port of Aveiro, during the sea campaign of the project “Technical studies for offshore energy potential”, within the scope of the PRR Recovery and Resilience Plan, where it received the delegation Norwegian parliamentarian, led by the Norwegian ambassador to Portugal, Hanne Bruscetto. The initiative marks 100 years of cooperation between the two countries in the area of ​​oceanographic research.

On the same day, the host and president of the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), Prof. José Guerreiro received the presidents of the municipal councils of Aveiro and Ílhavo, Eng. José Ribau Esteves and Eng. João Campolargo, respectively, the president of the Administration Council of the Port of Aveiro, Dr. Eduardo Feio, and the scientific coordinator of CESAM – Centro of Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, Prof. Amadeu Soares, as well as researchers and technicians from CESAM who boarded the multidisciplinary oceanographic and fishing research vessel (see news here, in portuguese) .

An initiative that illustrates the cooperative relationship between CESAM-UA and IPMA, reflected in the presence of CESAM-UA researchers in the first oceanographic mission, where for the first time, researchers from all Associated Laboratories of the Sea Area participated (see news here, in portuguese).

This multidisciplinary research campaign was decisive for the characterization of biodiversity and habitats in the seamounts of the Madeira-Tore Geological Complex and adjacent seamounts, also allowing the identification of new areas of high interest for the conservation of biodiversity in the region and constituting the scientific basis of support for planning and management of current and future classified areas.

In the coming weeks, Ana Hilário, Researcher at CESAM / DBio and UA, will participate in an expedition organized by the Oceano Azul Foundation to the Gorringe seamount to assess the health status of the highest mountain in Western Europe. Through the combination of different methodologies and complementary knowledge from several partner institutions, including CESAM and UA, it will be possible to provide a scientific assessment and recommendations aimed at protecting the oceans.

In addition to being important, the expedition will serve to obtain data for the implementation of the first Marine Protective Area offshore in mainland Portugal.

This scientific expedition will provide information and recommendations that will support the Portuguese Government in meeting the global goal of protecting 30% of the oceans by 2030.

Find out more here.

A-AGORA installs Biohuts in Porto de Aveiro to improve the biodiversity of the Ria

Subaquatic Structures provided by STRIX, ‘Biohuts’, increase aquatic biodiversity and improve environmental conservation

The Portuguese Demonstrator of the A-AAGORA project took an important step towards environmental conservation by installing ‘Biohuts’, innovative underwater structures, on the pontoons of Porto de Aveiro. This initiative aims to improve biodiversity and aquatic biomass in the Ria de Aveiro.

The ‘Biohuts’ function as fish nurseries, recreating natural habitats that attract juvenile marine species, promoting a richer and more diverse ecosystem.

The installation of these structures took place on the 12th and 13th of August, involving Strix, responsible for developing the Biohuts, the Port of Aveiro and the University of Aveiro, among the DEMO-PT partners. APARA – Artisanal Fishing Association of the Araranguá Region also participated in the initiative, as an important stakeholder in the action. On August 13th, a public presentation was held at APARA headquarters, where the objectives and benefits of ‘Biohuts’ were presented to regional stakeholders.

Over the next two years, the effectiveness of the ‘Biohuts’ will be regularly monitored, with monthly checks and data collection to assess their positive impact on local biodiversity.

A-AAGORA promotes Restoration Actions in Ria de Aveiro for the recovery of Zostera Noltei

Ria de Aveiro was the setting for a series of restoration actions focused on the recovery of Zostera noltei, a marine grass essential for the health of coastal ecosystems. The activities took place over six days, between July and August 2024, involving 41 participants, including academics, volunteers, and professionals from various fields.

The Importance of Zostera Noltei

Zostera noltei, a grass-like flowering plant also known as dwarf eelgrass, plays a vital role in Ria de Aveiro, covering an area of more than 230 hectares. This plant not only provides habitat and protection for various marine species but also contributes to sediment retention and the improvement of water quality. Due to its ability to survive in hydrodynamic conditions and turbid waters, dwarf eelgrass is an effective natural solution for ecosystem recovery.

Restoration Methodology and Locations

The restoration actions followed a specific protocol that involved the collection and transplantation of sods—intact sediment units with dwarf eelgrass roots, rhizomes, and leaves. This method, in addition to being economically efficient, allows donor areas to regenerate in less than 12 months, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the ecosystem.

The activities were carried out in three distinct areas of Ria de Aveiro: Laranjo, Antuã, and Aveiro, which were previously identified as suitable for the survival of dwarf eelgrass.

Participation

The success of these actions is due to the joint efforts of 41 participants, including 19 volunteers, who worked in challenging conditions, using boats and even an improvised sled to transport the sods.

Results and Impact

These actions exemplify a continuous commitment to ecosystem restoration, aligning with the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030) and the new EU Nature Restoration Law. In addition to contributing to the mitigation of climate change and biodiversity loss, the actions in Ria de Aveiro help reinforce food security and environmental quality in the region.

By allowing commercial tuna fishing in the protected marine area of ​​the Selvagens das Selvagens Islands Natural Reserve, the largest European marine reserve since 2022, the Regional Government of Madeira calls into question the commitment that has been made over the years to protect this marine sanctuary.

This decision conflicts with the global objective of protecting 30% of the oceans by 2030, which led around 300 researchers from around the world to sign a letter in the journal Nature asking Madeira authorities to “honor their commitments” regarding to the protected marine area of ​​the Selvagens Islands Natural Reserve. Several CESAM researchers signed this letter in Nature, which was highlighted in a well-known media outlet.

See the letter in Nature magazine here.

Are you ready to take your environmental and marine sciences research career to the next level? Apply for the Individual FCT Call to Scientific Employment Stimulus and open the door to a world of research excellence at CESAM, University of Aveiro!

About the call

The 2024 FCT Individual Call for the Scientific Employment Stimulus (CEEC) is designed to enhance the national scientific and technological framework by generating employment opportunities for doctoral researchers. It seeks to attract and retain highly qualified PhDs in Portugal, contributing to the rejuvenation of scientific institutions. Additionally, this initiative aims to support, deepen, and specialize activities related to research and innovation, particularly those focused on addressing scientific challenges and missions aligned with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) invites expressions of interest from doctoral researchers to participate in this call. CESAM will support the proposal preparation and submission of selected candidates.

Why CESAM?

CESAM is a Research Unit of the University of Aveiro (UAveiro), Portugal, awarded with the status of Associated Laboratory since 2005, and evaluated with the highest grade of Excellent since 2014, by FCT. CESAM includes more than 450 members (225 PhD researchers, 210 PhD students, and 15 technical & management staff), who develop and support fundamental and applied research in terrestrial, aquatic, coastal, and marine environments.

The mission of CESAM is to develop transdisciplinary and transformative research and innovation to address societal needs, namely environmental and marine challenges, global change processes, and sustainable solutions for the management and conservation of natural resources and the well-being of ecosystems and humanity, building upon a One-Health Approach.
Candidates will benefit from a supportive and collaborative research atmosphere with access to cutting-edge infrastructures that support excellence in research.

How to apply?

To apply, please submit the following documents and information by 7^th October:

• A summary of the proposed work plan (max. 2500 characters);
• A narrative CV synopsis (max. 500 characters), along with a link to your CienciaVitae profile;
• A motivation letter outlining your career trajectory over the past five years and the relevance of your achievements to CESAM’s Thematic Lines and overall mission (max. 2000 characters).

Kindly send your application documents in one single merged document or direct any inquiries to cesam-gesciencia@ua.pt.  All selected candidates will be required to submit their proposals through the myFCT platform. CESAM staff are available to provide support if needed.

Get ready to join our vibrant research community and make your mark in environmental and marine sciences!!

Luís Menezes Pinheiro, Associate Professor at the Department of Geosciences at the University of Aveiro and researcher at CESAM, was awarded the Military Medal of the Naval Cross, 1st Class.

The prestigious decoration was presented by the Chief of Staff of the Navy, Admiral Henrique Gouveia e Melo, in a session that took place at the Navy Academy. This decoration aims to distinguish military and civilian personnel, national or foreign, who, in the technical-professional sphere, reveal high competence, extraordinary performance and relevant personal qualities, contributing significantly to the efficiency, prestige and fulfillment of the mission of the Ministry of National Defense, the General Staff of the Armed Forces or the respective branch. Remember that Luís Menezes Pinheiro is the coordinator of the National Committee for the Ocean Decade.

This recognition illustrates the involvement, and active participation, of CESAM researchers in maritime issues.

This distinction also reinforces the relevance and contribution of CESAM to maritime policies and the valorization of marine resources, which is reflected, for example, through its contribution to the drafting of the oceans declaration presented at the United Nations Ocean Conference.

It should be remembered that this year, the city of Aveiro was the stage for the Navy Day Program, which had a strong participation from CESAM and the University of Aveiro.

(Text by: CESAM’s Communication, Promotion and Dissemination Office; Image: Comité Nacional para a Década do Oceano)

On the morning of 13th June, a restoration event took place at Marinha da Casqueira, organised by the A-AAGORA, RESTORE4Cs, LIFE, SeagrassRIAWild, and Rewrite projects, with the aim of promoting citizen science.

This event brought together thirteen volunteers, including academics from the natural and social sciences, as well as representatives from NGOs and vocational training institutions. Marinha da Casqueira, a natural heritage site of the University of Aveiro, is part of the Ria de Aveiro lagoon system, historically known for salt production. Recently, its walls were restored, which is why the vegetation is still sparse.

To promote the natural consolidation of the walls through halophyte vegetation, over 500 plants of Salicornia perennis and Atriplex, cultivated in the ECOMARE greenhouse systems, were planted. Priority was given to areas without vegetation and areas already populated but not well established.

(Text by: Dionísia Laranjeiro)

On the 14th of June, a workshop on the restoration of dune systems, seagrass meadows, and salt marsh habitats of the Ria de Aveiro was held at ECOMARE. This event was co-organised by the A-AAGORA, RESTORE4Cs, LIFE, REWRITE, and LIFE SeagrassRiaWild projects.

The workshop featured the participation of 25 key stakeholders from the region, including representatives from public sector administration, municipalities, non-governmental organisations, businesses, and educational and vocational training institutions. All participants were invited to share their knowledge about the most characteristic species of the coastal habitats of the Ria de Aveiro, in order to consider restoration actions.

This initiative employed the Living Lab methodology, which focuses on the active participation of stakeholders in the process of coastal ecosystem restoration, allowing solutions to be co-developed to meet real needs and contributions.

(Text by: Dionísia Laranjeiro)

It is next Monday, July 15th, that CESAM Day will be celebrated. A day that serves to take stock of the last year, to prepare for the future and to celebrate another year of CESAM’s existence. A day of celebration and conviviality for the CESAM community. With a program that highlights lectures by Professor Carlos Borrego, Professor Emeritus at the University of Aveiro, CESAM and DAO, and by Luísa Schmidt, Coordinating Researcher at the Institute of Social Sciences at the University of Lisbon.

We also inform you that anyone wishing to purchase the Book – 50 years of Environmental Policies in Portugal by Luísa Schmidt will be able to do so on the day of the event with a discount, courtesy of Edições Afrontamento.

We count on the participation of all members of the CESAM Community to celebrate this day, which includes a friendly lunch.

Vision 2030 is a strategic initiative by the Ocean Decade to define success for each of its 10 challenges by 2030. It aims to identify trends, gaps, and user needs, setting key targets and milestones for progress.

The process will determine user needs, essential datasets, gaps in science, and required resources for each challenge. Concrete indicators and methodologies will evaluate the impact and relevance of these challenges over time.

Coordinated by IOC/UNESCO, Vision 2030 is led by 10 expert Working Groups, each focused on a specific challenge. These groups include diverse stakeholders, such as government, NGOs, academia, and local communities, and are led by two expert Co-Chairs.

In June 2024, 10 Vision 2030 White Papers were published, outlining resources, partnerships, and technology solutions needed to achieve these goals by 2030, providing strategic recommendations for a sustainable ocean future:

• Understand and beat marine pollution
• Protect and restore ecosystems and biodiversity
• Sustainably nourish the global population
• Develop a sustainable and equitable ocean economy
• Unlock ocean-based solutions to climate change
• Increase community resilience to ocean hazards
• Sustainably expand the Global Ocean Observing System
• Create a digital representation of the ocean
• Skills, knowledge, technology and participatory decision making for all
• Restoring society’s relationship with the ocean
  

The key outcome of Vision 2030 will be a series of white papers on the 10 Ocean Decade Challenges, along with a synthesis report that addresses connections between the Challenges. Draft versions will be shared for broad review and input in the coming months. Final drafts will be presented and discussed at the 2024 Ocean Decade Conference in Barcelona during thematic ‘Science Solution Forums,’ offering a global platform for stakeholders to engage, share insights, and collectively advance the implementation of the Challenges.

For more information, please click here.

(Text by: CESAM’s Communication, Promotion and Dissemination Office)