Scientists anticipate 15 major challenges for aquatic ecosystems in Portugal
A new study published in the journal Environmental and Sustainability Indicators identifies research and management priorities for the coming decade, emphasising the role of science in anticipating risks and shaping public policy.
A group of 18 researchers from the Associated Laboratory ARNET – Aquatic Research Network has just published the first systematic horizon scanning exercise dedicated to Portuguese aquatic ecosystems. The study identifies the 15 major challenges and opportunities that are expected to shape the coming decade in aquatic research.
Among the priorities for marine ecosystems, the work highlights coastal erosion, the impacts of the green energy transition (ranging from the installation of offshore wind farms to potential deep-sea mining), and the need to expand and interconnect Marine Protected Areas. With regard to freshwater ecosystems, key messages pinpointed the importance of locating biodiversity refuges during periods of drought and assessing the ecological and social risks of large-scale water transfers between regions, such as the Alqueva Transfer project. Among cross-cutting topics, the study underlines the need to develop solutions to detect and remove emerging pollutants from ecosystems (such as pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and microplastics), and emphasises the need to invest in ecological restoration.
“The identification of these 15 themes provides a clear roadmap for research and management of aquatic ecosystems in Portugal over the next decade, helping to anticipate risks and guide more effective policies,” explains Ronaldo Sousa, researcher at CBMA & ARNET, and coordinator of this collaborative reflection.
With more than 700 researchers across 11 host institutions, ARNET is dedicated to the integrated study of aquatic systems, ranging from river basins to the deep ocean. It promotes the connection between scientific knowledge, public policies, and action in the territory, contributing to environmental sustainability and more informed management of ecosystems. This Associated Laboratory is a multi-institutional network with a wide geographical distribution, comprising three R&D units: MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, CIMA – Centre for Marine and Environmental Research and CBMA – Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology.