The overall aim of ECHC RG focuses on the assessment of functional aspects of biodiversity, at different levels of biological organization, from sub-cellular to landscape, from catchment to coast. It targets fundamental and applied research on: i) science-based knowledge on functions and processes; and ii) contribution to the development and effective implementation of environmental policies and integrated management. For this, research has been centred on: generating new knowledge on the influence of biodiversity on ecosystem structure, functions (including adaptations) and services, within the context of global changes; assessing the impacts of environmental perturbations (occurring naturally or caused by anthropogenic activities), at different levels of biological organization, on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystem; understanding the impacts and mitigation of human activities on cetaceans, seabirds and marine turtles mainly in Continental Portugal and on shorebirds (or waders) across the East Atlantic Flyway. The ECHC RG aims to further develop, within the main goals indicated previously: i) the conservation of marine protected species in Mainland Portugal; develop comprehensive and integrated multi-disciplinary approaches to assess impacts of environmental stressors on biological resources, ecosystem function and ecological services; optimize strategies for the remediation of impacted areas. ii) Implement management plans for Natura 2000 sites for cetaceans; contribute for an accurate implementation of EU environmental policies (e.g. REACH); promote a safe and sustainable management of valuable biological products..