On 26 November, a dissemination session entitled “Classification and Monitoring of Bivalve Production Zones” took place in Algés, Lisbon, promoted by the National Monitoring System for Bivalve Molluscs (SNMB) of the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA). The initiative aimed to strengthen the exchange of technical and scientific knowledge on the processes of delimitation, classification, and monitoring of bivalve production zones in Portugal, a responsibility assigned to IPMA through the SNMB.
The session brought together around 80 representatives from public entities, producers’ associations, aquaculture organisations and companies involved in the harvesting, production, and marketing of bivalves, including DGAV, DGRM, ASAE, APA, Docapesca, producer organisations and associations of shellfish gatherers and farmers. The Director of CESAM, Amadeu Soares, attended the event, where the centre’s important role in improving the implementation of the monitoring plan within the IPMA Aveiro operational area—covering the coastal sector between Figueira da Foz and the northern limit of the Ria de Aveiro—was highlighted. CESAM’s participation was recognised as an asset in strengthening the technical and scientific capacity required for water quality assessment and the sustainable management of marine resources.
The programme included contributions from several IPMA specialists, addressing key topics related to food safety and the management of production areas. The presentations covered the mission of the SNMB, the classification of production zones, sampling procedures, microbiological and metal contaminant monitoring, the analysis of harmful phytoplankton, and the detection of marine biotoxins. The event also featured a roundtable discussion with representatives from DGAV, DOCAPESCA, DGRM, sectoral associations and producer organisations, fostering interinstitutional dialogue on current challenges and future improvements.
The presence of CESAM at this initiative, held at the invitation of IPMA’s leadership, reinforces its contribution to advancing scientific knowledge applied to the management of coastal ecosystems and the protection of public health. Events such as this are essential for strengthening cooperation networks, promoting continuous technical development, and consolidating the scientific foundations that support the monitoring of marine resources, which are vital for the sustainability of aquaculture and the bivalve harvesting sector in Portugal.