the ocean of tomorrow projects...
TRANSCRIPT
[Written by] [Month – 20XX]
The Ocean of Tomorrow Projects (2010-2013)
What results so far for healthy and productive seas and oceans?
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Directorate-General for Research and Innovation
Directorate F — Bioeconomy Unit F4 — Marine Resources
Contact: [email protected]
European Commission B-1049 Brussels
II
Projects Results
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
The Ocean of Tomorrow Projects (2010-2013)
"What results so far for healthy and productive seas and oceans?"
Research and Innovation
III
LEGAL NOTICE
This document has been prepared for the European Commission however it reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
IV
PREFACE
Seas and oceans have a huge impact on our daily lives, providing an essential part of our wealth and well-being. They are not only a critical source of food, energy and resources, but also provide the majority of Europe's trade routes. The value of living by the sea, while intangible, is high to many of us. However, the impact of human activities on the marine environment is increasing. Maritime transport, offshore energy, tourism, coastal development, resource extraction, fisheries and aquaculture are examples of activities which can have a major impact on the marine environment, putting marine ecosystems at risk. 'The EU Strategy for Marine and Maritime Research' (COM (2008) 534) underpins the EU Integrated Maritime Policy. Through excellence in science and innovation, it aims to support a thriving and sustainable maritime economy. Science and technology have a vital role to play in preserving the marine environment as well as supporting 'Blue Growth'1 in enhancing the great economic potential of our seas and oceans. It is a key component which contributes to the 'Europe 2020'2 goal of smart, inclusive and sustainable growth for Europe.
The 'European Strategy for Marine and Maritime research' (COM (2008) 534)3, adopted in 2008, is a key pillar of the EU Integrated Maritime Policy and provides a reference framework for marine and maritime research at European level.
A key initiative in this context is the launch of 'The Ocean of Tomorrow' (FP7-OCEAN) cross-thematic calls in FP74. The 'Ocean of Tomorrow' initiative aims to foster multidisciplinary approaches and cross-fertilisation between various scientific disci-plines and economic sectors on key cross-cutting marine and maritime challenges. A key feature is also the participation of business partners, in particular SMEs, in the research projects that are funded.
The aim of this brochure, as implied in its title "What results so far for healthy and productive seas and oceans?" is to present the results achieved thus far for the 31 pro-jects that were selected under 'The Ocean of Tomorrow' calls. It comprises of 21 projects from the FP7-OCEAN-2010, FP7-OCEAN-2011 and FP7-OCEAN-2013 calls for proposals, as well as 10 projects under 'The Ocean of Tomorrow 2012' coordinated topics for a total EU contribution of 195,6M€ from 2010-2013. A description of the calls can be found in the following pages. The 'Ocean of Tomorrow 2013', with its strong focus on technologies and innovation, paves the way for the new challenge-driven approaches under Horizon 2020.
The results of the projects are organised into factsheets listing the objectives, the technical and scientific approach used in the project, the results achieved so far, a description of expected future results (if any) and a final description of the various impacts that the projects can have on progress, society, environment, etc.
V
1 COM (2012) 494: http://ec.europa.eu/maritimeaffairs/ poĮicy/bĮue_growth/documents/com_2012_494_en.pdf
2 http://eur-Iex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ. do?uri=COM:2010:2020:FIN:EN:PDF
3 COM (2008) 534: http://eur-Iex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=COM:2008:0534:FIN:EN:PDF
4 http://ec.europa.eu/research/bioeconomy/fish/ research/ocean/index_en.htm
VI
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FP7-0CEAN-2010 ................................................................................................................................. 2
FP7-0CEAN-2010-1 ACCESS: Arctic Climate Change Economy and Society……............................. 4
FP7-0CEAN-2010-2 VECTORS: Vectors of Change in Oceans and Seas Marine Life, Impact on
Economic Sectors............................................................................................................................... 5
FP7-0CEAN-2010-3 EC02: Sub-seabed CO2 Storage: Impact on Marine Ecosystems...................... 6
FP7-0CEAN-2011 ............................................................................................................................. .. 8
FP7-0CEAN-2011-1 H20CEAN: Development of a wind-wave power open-sea platform equipped for
hydrogen generation with support for multiple users of energy...........................................................10
FP7-0CEAN-2011-1 MERMAID: Innovative Multi-purpose offshore platforms: planning, Design and
operation..............................................................................................................................................11
FP7-0CEAN-2011-1 TROPOS: Modular Multi-use Deep Water Offshore Platform Harnessing and
Servicing Mediterranean, Subtropical and Tropical Marine and Maritime Resources.........................12
FP7-0CEAN-2011-2 MICRO B3: Marine Microbial Biodiversity, Bioinformatics and Biotechnology...13
FP7-0CEAN-2011-3 PERSEUS: Policy-orientated marine Environmental Research for the Southern
European Seas.....................................................................................................................................14
FP7-0CEAN-2011-4 COCONET: Towards COast to COast NETworks of marine protected areas (from
the shore to the high and deep sea), coupled with sea-based wind energy potential..........................15
FP7-0CEAN-2012 ...............................................................................................................................16
AQUATRACE: The development of tools for tracing and evaluating the genetic impact of fish from
aquaculture..........................................................................................................................................18
AQUO: Achieve QUieter Oceans by shipping noise footprint reduction..............................................19
BENTHIS: Benthic Ecosystem Fisheries Impact Study.......................................................................20
BIOCLEAN: New BIOtechnologiCaL approaches for biodegrading and promoting the environmEntal
biotrAnsformation of syNthetic polymeric materials.............................................................................21
CLEANSEA: Towards a Clean, Litter-Free European Marine Environment through Scientific Evidence,
Innovative Tools and Good Governance.............................................................................................22
DEVOTES: DEVelopment Of innovative Tools for understanding marine biodiversity and assessing
good Environmental Status..................................................................................................................23
ECSAFESEAFOOD: Priority environmental contaminants in seafood: safety assessment, impact and
public perception..................................................................................................................................24
KILL«SPILL: Integrated Biotechnological Solutions for Combating Marine Oil Spills..........................25
SONIC: Suppression Of underwater Noise Induced by Cavitation......................................................26
STAGES: Science and Technology Advancing Governance on Good Environmental Status.............27
FP7-0CEAN-2013 ...............................................................................................................................28
FP7-0CEAN-2013-1 BRAAVOO: Biosensors, Reporters and Algal Autonomous Vessels for Ocean
Operation ............................................................................................................................................30
FP7-0CEAN-2013-1 ENVIGUARD: Development of a biosensor technology for environmental
monitoring and disease prevention in aquaculture ensuring food safety.............................................31
FP7-OCEAN-2013-1 MARIABOX: MARINE environmental in-situ Assessment and monitoring tool
BOX.....................................................................................................................................................32
FP7-OCEAN-2013-1 SEA-ON-A-CHIP: Real time monitoring of SEA contaminants by an autonomous
Lab-on-a-chip biosensor......................................................................................................................33
FP7-OCEAN-2013-1 SMS: Sensing toxicants in Marine waters makes Sense using biosensors.......34
FP7-OCEAN-2013-2 COMMON SENSE: Cost-Effective Sensors, Interoperable with International
Existing Ocean Observing Systems, to Meet EU Policies Requirements............................................35
FP7-OCEAN-2013-2 NeXOS: Next generation, Cost-effective, Compact, Multifunctional Web Enabled
Ocean Sensor Systems Empowering Marine, Maritime and Fisheries Management..........................36
FP7-OCEAN-2013-2 SCHeMA: Integrated In-Situ Chemical MApping Probes...................................37
FP7-OCEAN-2013-2 SENSEOCEAN: Marine sensors for the 21st Century.......................................38
FP7-OCEAN-2013-3 BYEFOULING: Low-toxic cost-efficient environment-friendly antifouling
materials...............................................................................................................................................39
FP7-OCEAN-2013-3 SEAFRONT: Synergistic Fouling Control Technologies.....................................40
FP7-OCEAN-2013-4 LEANWIND: Logistic Efficiencies And Naval architecture for Wind Installations
with Novel Developments......................................................................................................................41
VII
1 | P a g e
FP7-0CEAN-20105:
The objective of the FP7-0CEAN-2010 call was to build the knowledge base for a sustainable growth of sea-based activities. It will do this in two ways: by improving understanding of marine ecosystems' response to a combination of natural and anthropogenic factors, and by providing a scientific foundation for feasible, sustainable management measures supporting policies and possible related technologies. The call consisted of three topics related to: climate change impacts on economic sectors in the Arctic, vectors of changes in marine life and sub-seabed carbon storage and the marine environment. It involved Theme 2 'Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, and Biotechnology' (FAFB), Theme 5 'Energy', Theme 6 'Environment (including Climate Change)', Theme 7 'Transport (including Aeronautics)' and Theme 8 'Socio-economic Sciences and Humanities'. As a result, 3 projects6 have been selected for a total EU contribution of about 34M€.
5 http://europa.eu/rapid/press-reĮease_IP-09-1206_en.htm?ĮocaĮe=en
6 http://europa.eu/rapid/press-reIease_IP-10-1098_en.htm
3 | P a g e
4 | P a g e
Project № 265863
EU contribution: € 10,978,468
Duration: 48 months
From: March 2011
Coordinator:
Jean-Claude GASCARD
UNIVERSITE PIERRE ET MARIE CURIE - PARIS 6, FR
Objective The main objective of ACCESS was to evaluate climate change impacts in the Arctic on marine transportation (including tourism), seafood production (fisheries and aquaculture) and the offshore extraction of hydrocarbons up to 2040 with particular attention to the environment sensitivity and sustainability and also to Arctic governance issues and strategic policy options.
Approach
ACCESS established 30 years projections based on climate change scenarios for assessing the evolution of human activities in the domain of marine transportation, fisheries, oil & gas extraction in the Arctic and for understanding the socio-economic impacts of these changes on Arctic governance. ACCESS developed three management tools aimed at easing integrated approaches to management: a Marine Spatial Planning tool (MSP) covering the whole Arctic, a framework for integrated Ecosystem based Management (EBM) and a set of indicators for a sustainable development in the Arctic.
Results achieved
The impacts of climate change in the Arctic are accelerating. This is the result of feedbacks and other processes commonly referred to as “Polar” or “Arctic “amplification. The Arctic has warmed twice as fast as the global average. Climate change is expected to transform the Arctic Ocean from a year-round ice covered ocean to an ice-free ocean in summer and a thin ice covered ocean in winter.
Regarding marine shipping, ACCESS findings indicate that the potential trade benefit through the reduction in distance for reaching final destinations is large and would result in significant cost saving. In the long term, if largely ice-free as predicted and with the required infrastructure, the Northern Sea Route (NSR) could carry significant traffic and new polar routes might be envisioned.
ACCESS results indicate that we should expect some changes in plankton biomasses and distribution due to climate variability but these changes do not seem very dramatic although large uncertainties remain.
Elements likely to impact Arctic seafood production include natural variability in ecosystems dynamics, policy and conflict of interest, behavior of coastal communities and development of other sectors of activity in the Arctic. ACCESS projected some effects of increased offshore production of hydrocarbons in the European Arctic, but concluded that neither European Arctic offshore natural gas nor oil are a game changer for Europe. Asia is likely to attract most of the production we might witness in Greenland, the Barents Sea or even the Russian Arctic.
Four ACCESS policy briefs were released concerning air pollution by ship emissions in the Arctic, oil spills risks and contingency in sea ice covered ocean, Arctic seafood production in the context of global economy and food supply and the implementation of the Polar Code recently led by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Three ACCESS scenarios were built around oil spill under sea ice, Arctic seafood production and the Polar Code implementation with a vision for the next 30 years.
Further expected results
The ACCESS consortium is working on two major publications. One concerns a full synthesis report of the ACCESS project in particular dealing with cross-sectoral topics and issues such as Arctic infrastructures for instance. Another publication will be composed of 15 articles submitted to AMBIO by ACCESS partners and covering major topics relevant to the ACCESS project.
Impact
Climate change is strongly impacting both marine ecosystems and human activities in the Arctic, which in turn has important socio-economic implications for Europe. ACCESS is contributing to the implementation of the IMO Polar Code, the adaptation of the UNCLOS protocol to the Arctic Ocean, the EU maritime Policy and the EU Marine Strategy Framework directive for shipping, fisheries and offshore oil & gas extraction in the Arctic Ocean.
5 | P a g e
Objective
VECTORS has improved our understanding of the mechanisms by which human-induced pressures on the marine environment cause changes and projected what the societal and economic repercussions of these changes will be. This new knowledge has been made easily accessible at www.marine-vectors.eu so that it can be used in support of marine management decisions, policies and governance.
Approach
VECTORS has examined changes in marine life and the implications for ecosystems, the European economies and society. VECTORS has addressed changes in distribution and productivity of fisheries, increases in outbreaks of organisms such as jellyfish blooms, and increasing invasions of alien species, with case studies to support generic understanding in the Western Mediterranean, North Sea and Baltic Sea.
Results achieved
New and existing knowledge and insight has been synthesized and integrated to project future changes in marine life, ecosystems and economies under different scenarios for adaptation and mitigation. VECTORS has evaluated current forms and mechanisms of marine governance in relation to the vectors of change, working in consultation with key policy and marine stakeholders to specialised databases and tissue repositories for invasive alien and outbreak forming species; an iPhone application for informing on the occurrence of jellyfish blooms; novel use of risk assessment approaches; suites of modelling tools, including Atlantis, for ensemble analysis of ecological, ecosystem, fishery and economic change in response to management strategies; and novel application of global models to understand the macro-economic implications of marine life change.
Project results are multiple and only a selection can be provided here. Climate change and interactions between different marine sectors are causing changes in marine life in all three regional seas with the rate of invasion by new species currently greatest in the Mediterranean.
The distribution of many fish and invertebrate species is projected to move northwards over the next 50 years in response to anticipated climate change. Tradition, as well as economic opportunity, drives fishermen’s allocation of fishing effort but the impacts of competition for space with other marine sectors varies among fleets and seas. Impacts of changing marine life on ecosystems, their functioning and provision of services are diverse and dependent upon context. Nonetheless, the public place value on aspects of ecosystems representing marine ecosystem services, with conservation and the protection of the environment recognized as important as long as they are in balance with economic uses. Jellyfish outbreaks have an economic and social cost to tourists in the Mediterranean, yet jellyfish also have potential benefits as a commodity in nutrition and pharmaceuticals. There are economic effects of marine life change in fisheries, tourism and shipping sectors but effects on fisheries profitability are not consistent across regional seas or fish stocks within seas. Spatially explicit models have been developed that can analyse management strategies for multi-species stocks of fish and for spatial interactions between maritime sectors and management measures for conservation. Macro-economic impacts of changes in marine ecosystems on EU countries are greater when tourism is affected because it has a much higher contribution to the production of value added than fisheries.
Impact
VECTORS information and knowledge will inform the development and implementation of forth-coming strategies, policies, regional seas conventions, management bodies and regulations across Europe, such as the EU Maritime Policy and the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive.
Project № 266445
EU contribution: € 12,484,835
Duration: 48 months
From: February 2011
Coordinator:
Melanie AUSTEN
PLYMOUTH MARINE LABORATORY, UK
6 | P a g e
Objective
ECO2 pursued the following 5 key project objectives: i)
investigate the likelihood of leakage form sub-seabed
storage sites, ii) study the potential effects of leakage on
benthic organisms and marine ecosystems, iii) assess the
risks of sub-seabed carbon dioxide storage, iv) develop a
comprehensive monitoring strategy using cutting-edge
monitoring techniques, v) define guidelines for the best
environmental practices in implementation and
management of sub-seabed storage sites.
Approach
CO2 conducted a comprehensive offshore field
programme at the Norwegian storage sites Sleipner and
Snøhvit and at several natural CO2 seepage sites in order
to identify potential pathways for CO2 leakage through the
overburden, monitor seep sites at the seabed, track and
trace the spread of CO2 in ambient bottom waters, and
study the response of benthic biota to CO2. The field work
was accompanied by lab experiments and numerical
modelling.
Results achieved
i) Methodology for the assessment of environmental risks of
sub-seabed CO2 storage.
ii) Strategy for the environmental monitoring of sub-seabed
CO2 storage sites
iii) Guidelines for best environmental practices in the
operation of sub-seabed storage sites
All of the above documents were discussed with the
project’s stakeholder dialogue board, presented during
stakeholder workshops at Brussels, and published via the
project’s webpage.
Further expected results
No further expected results because the project ended in April 2015.
Impact
The project provides a science-based realistic
assessment of environmental risks associated with the
storage of CO2 below the seabed and a strategy for the
monitoring of sub-seabed storage sites. It strongly
improves the scientific and technical base for the
environmentally safe operation of sub-seabed CO2
storage sites and contributes to the minimization of
environmental risks of the CCS technology in general.
Project № 265847
EU contribution: € 10,500,000
Duration: 48 months
From: May 2011
Coordinator: Klaus WALLMANN
HELMHOLTZ ZENTRUM FUR
OZEANFORSCHUNG KIEL, DE
7 | P a g e
8 | P a g e
FP7-OCEAN-20117
The aims of the call was to improve our understanding and the predictive capacity of marine ecosystems' response to a combination of natural and anthropogenic factors, while fostering innovations to make the most of sea resources. The call consisted of four topics. Two were of generic nature: Multi-use offshore platforms and Marine microbial diversity while the other two were of particular relevance to the Mediterranean and the Black Sea regions: (1) natural and human-made pressures in the Mediterranean and Black Sea and (2) marine protected areas and wind energy potential in the Mediterranean and Black Sea. The call was implemented jointly between Theme 2 'Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, and Biotechnology' (FAFB), Theme 5 'Energy', Theme 6 'Environment (including Climate Change)' and Theme 7 'Transport (including Aeronautics)'. As a result 6 projects8 have been selected for funding for a total EU contribution of almost 46M€.
7 http://europa.eu/rapid/press-reIease_iP-10-1098_en.htm
8 http://ec.europa.eu/research/bioeconomy/fish/research/ocean/fp7-ocean-projects_en.htm
9 | P a g e
10 | P a g e
Objective The overall objective of H2OCEAN is to arrive at a proof-of-concept design for a new fully integrated multipurpose platform to make the most of the sea resources, fostering activities such as renewable power harvesting,multi-trophic aquaculture,environmental monitoring, and to assess the impact of such platform at environmental and economic levels. The rational exploitation of oceans space and resources is seen as crucial to enhance European competitiveness in key areas such as renewable energy and aquaculture. Given the very positive environmental profile of the project, especially with regard to CO2 reduction and offshore aquaculture stimulation, the project is highly relevant from a political and societal perspective. Approach The concept of the project is to develop a flexible design for a multi-component and multipurpose wind-wave farm based platform, which can be varied to address the requirements of the location and local economics. The system will comprise hydrogen generation in open-sea from renewable sources (wave and wind), a facility for fresh water production and multiple uses of the electrical energy produced in open-sea: support for aquaculture, communications, etc. Results achieved 1.Software tool for assessment of location. Integrated tool for visualization,selection and objective evaluation of candidate sites for the installation of the different activities present in the platform, separated or as an integrated ensemble. Relevant for industry, policy makers and society. It has been disseminated to researchers and industry through conferences and network events.2. Novel solutions to producing several species on a single aquaculture site and design for an offshore multi-trophic aquaculture system. The customers are expected to be existing fish farming companies who wish to expand and are unable to gain further licenses for near shore aquaculture sites, which will benefit of increased profitability and sustainability. It is relevant for society, environment and industry. Deliverables on this topic have been declared restricted or confidential.3. Novel type of anaerobic digester for recycling organic waste into bio energy production designed for offshore operation. Among the potential customers we can find different Offshore platforms, Cruise ships, Fish factory ships, Marine hotels and floating islands. Benefit: specialized journal and 1 poster presentation. 6. Engineering design of the integrated
aquaculture system including moorings and its integration into the energy platform. Large Energy Companies/Large Finfish Based Aquaculture Companies would benefit from this result. Relevant for the offshore industry. It has been disseminated to general public, researchers and industry through public presentations available in H2Ocean Web Site.7. Coupled aero-hydro elastic dynamic model for Vertical Axis Wind Turbines. An innovative coupled model of dynamics for floating VAWT, able to estimate the time response of the system to aerodynamic, hydrostatic/ hydrodynamic, mooring system loads, considered acting at the same time. Future customers are companies, research institutes and academic institutions involved in the offshore floating wind turbines field. The benefits are two tools: the conceptual/preliminary design tool for floating vertical axis wind turbines (potentially also horizontal axis wind turbines) and the educational tool to illustrate and investigate the complex dynamics of these systems (academia). Relevant for industry and society. Publication of 4 articles, 8 presentations and 2 posters, all available in the project’s web site. Further expected results 12 exploitable results have been considered for further actions and two results have been dismissed because the technology is not competitive. Some further results are on prototype, models and software tool developments based on the technical results achieved during the H2OCEAN project. Impact H2OCEAN multi-use platform has proved to be a very good alternative to secure food sources and energy supply when these are done ethically. Additionally, a multi trophic aquaculture where fishes from different trophic levels are farmed eliminates the pressure on wild pelagic fish stocks and thus doesn’t compete with the local pool of wild fish. Involvement of the coastal community and stakeholders has to be done from the early stages. New jobs opportunity will arise for coastal communities, to access these jobs some training has to be foreseen among the coastal community prior or in parallel to the start of the exploitation. It has to be stressed that any activity that could pose a threat or that could have a negative impact on human health (fish feeding additives, pesticides, wind turbines noise, etc.) as well as any negative impact to the environment should be considered and addressed.
Project № 288145
EU contribution: € 4,525,934
Duration: 36 months
From: January 2012
Coordinator:
Armando J. PALOMAR
AWS TRUEPOWER, ES
11 | P a g e
Objective European oceans will be subject to massive development of marine infrastructure in the near future that is why the concept of multi-use offshore platforms is particularly interesting, especially in connection with the development of energy facilities e.g. offshore wind farms, exploitation of wave energy, and also development and implementation of marine aquaculture. These developments require effective marine technology and governance solutions. Simultaneously, both economic costs and environmental impacts have to remain within acceptable limits. These concerns are at the core of the MERMAID project funded under "The Ocean of Tomorrow" call for proposals. Approach The concept of the project MERMAID is to develop and test methods for stakeholder participation in a three-step procedure. Multiple stakeholders from a wide array of sectors were engaged in the participatory three-step procedure from an early stage of project to address the complex issues and to facilitate cooperation for the future. The method has been tested for four characteristic sites in European waters: a Baltic site, a North Sea site, an Atlantic site and a Mediterranean site. The sites represent specific challenges on the environmental, socio-economic, and physical (met-ocean and seabed characteristics) conditions. It has turned out that the process has a greater success in areas with relatively mature project ideas. Results achieved The main results until now include tested procedures for stakeholder involvement in a participatory three-step procedure, a substantial strengthen of the knowledge and science base for multi-disciplinary approaches leading to several guidelines technical guidelines, and a methodology for Integrated Socio-Economic Assessment (ISEA). 1.Relative shallow water characterizes the Baltic, the North Sea sites, while the Atlantic and the Mediterranean sites have deep water. In shallow regions, the combined interaction between waves/currents structure and seabed is of high importance and two of the technical guidelines focused on these processes. 2.In deeper water, floating structures to support offshore wind turbines and wave energy converters have been analyzed by physical model experiments and through numerical analyses. Especially mooring systems are of high importance here. This will be useful for designers, manufacturers, contractors.
3.An inventory on existing legislative framework and policies regarding offshore wind farms and aquaculture in EU has been elaborated. Further, an environmental impact assessment guideline will be elaborated. Specific questions addressed are: Will the environmental impact decrease or increase? Will the multi-use approach lead to a better exploration of ocean space for aquaculture? Addressing such key questions will be of interest to Governmental agencies, spatial planners (private and public), investors and NGOs. 4.The different nature and characteristics of industries challenge the idea of the multi-use concept, as most industries sees the multi-use as a complicating factor. Therefore, future developments have to address this concern and making the potentials clearer. As the stakeholder involvement process was more successful on multi-use mature sites, a steady evolution towards a multi-use platform might be much more successful than the thought of a single revolutionary idea. 5.MERMAID established close links with the TROPOS and H2OCEAN projects funded under the same "The Ocean of Tomorrow" topic in order to enhance complementarities and synergies focusing on three areas: EIA, SEA and LCA. Further expected results At the end of the project, a set of specific guidelines will be produced in order to assist future stakeholders within the offshore industries in order to plan, establish and operate their businesses in the most optimal way possible. The multi-disciplinary and cross-sectorial approach of this project is very innovative and the EU added value also lies in the case studies that address four EU regional seas. Impact Multi-use platform or co-location of activities has a great potential for optimal use of the marine space and with lower environmental impact. The project demonstrates the necessity to involve stakeholders as soon as from the early stages to bring different sectors to identify benefits to cooperate. Mermaid raised awareness about legal and economic barriers but also potential to improve the cooperation between different maritime activities on a same marine space. Further technological development options are also identified as to further lowering the risk for investors in this multi-use concept.
Project № 288710
EU contribution: € 5,483,411
Duration: 48 months
From: January 2012
Coordinator:
Erik Damgaard CHRISTENSEN
DANMARKS TEKNISKE UNIVERSITET, DK
12 | P a g e
Objective The main objective of the TROPOS project is to develop the multi-use oceanic platforms concept, which has clearly become one of the EU’s most interesting and ambitious initiatives in order to ensure the integrated, sustainable and ecological exploitation of oceanic resources. These objectives require a multidisciplinary and highly specialised team in areas such as offshore structures, energy, aquaculture and maritime transport.
Approach The TROPOS project has a multi-disciplinary nature and represents a significant challenge in terms of standardizing approaches and methodologies, since it puts together many different sectors. Thus, the TEAL (Transport, Energy, Aquaculture and Leisure) sectors were integrated into different conceptual modules and scenarios, highlighting three main concepts: ‘Sustainable Production Concept’, ‘Green & Blue Concept’ and ‘Leisure Island Concept’.
Results achieved Optimal locations for multi-use offshore platforms
The TROPOS project has initially defined three zones as typical ‘target regions’ for the platforms, namely the Canary Islands (specifically Gran Canaria; Spain), Crete (Greece), and Taiwan. In a later phase of the project, the central North Sea and Panama were also considered as target regions.
Definition and establishment of integrative and synergistic relationships
To define and establish integrative and synergistic relationships among the TEAL sectors, it was important to start with the development of a methodology to define generic design benchmarks and selection criteria for the platform and components designs and their implementation.
Development of novel, cost-efficient and modular multi-use platform designs
The design solution of the modular multi-use approach involved a floating central unit platform which is fixed to the seafloor by a catenary mooring. Modules with different functions can be directly integrated into the central unit (connection system patent pending), and/or satellite units can be indirectly connected (via undersea cables), each according to requirements.
Economic feasibility and viability of multi-use platforms Deployment targets for 2020 should be realised by considering existing standards and regulations, infrastructure, financial mechanisms and the knowledge of existing offshore platforms. In order to reach the commercialization of the sector, the implementation of many of the developed recommendations must be carried out through both changes in policy as well as updating the physical infrastructural requirements of the industry. Environmental impact methodology and assessment
Based on the information from the environmental impact assessment collected at the beginning of the project, appropriate negative impact mitigation strategies were developed and specific monitoring programmes were adapted to each of the scenarios to minimize/avoid adverse effects on the environment and society.
Complete solutions/final configured scenarios
The final TROPOS modular multi-use offshore platform scenarios were configured while considering all different aspects regarding site characteristics, economy, environment, technology, design, logistics and society.
Further expected results Even though the project has already finished, upcoming initiatives in order to prepare a scaled prototype of a multi-use offshore platform are on the way.
Impact The TROPOS project is expected to have wide and lasting impacts on several levels and in different fields. First and most obvious, innovative, advanced technological solutions for modular floating multi-use platforms. Besides, the multitude of insights gained and lessons learned during the project will significantly and positively influence future developments. Finally, the possibly largest social implication is related to awareness rising in several regards. Different public activities of the TROPOS project made various stakeholders aware of the offshore industry, novel offshore infrastructures and future uses of the marine space.
Project № 288192
EU contribution: € 4,877,911
Duration: 36 months
From: February 2012
Coordinator:
Jose Joaquin HERNANDEZ BRITO
PLATAFORMA OCEANICA DE CANARIAS, ES
13 | P a g e
Objective Micro B3 is improving Europe’s capacity for bioinformatics and marine microbial data integration for the benefit of a variety of disciplines in biosciences, technology, computing and law. From 2012 until end of 2015 Micro B3 is implementing its primary objective to develop and provide integrated access to biodiversity, genomic, oceanographic and earth-observation databases. It is building on global standards for sampling and data processing like the Minimum Information about any (x) Sequence (MIxS) standard and checklist.
Approach The combined approach within Micro B3 facilitates the whole process of knowledge generation and its use: from legal and technical aspects of sampling and data acquisition all the way to integrated data analysis, sound statistics and to testing of applications within selected biotechnology value chains. The innovative joint analysis of genomic and ecological information is generating new knowledge and provides new perspectives for the modelling and exploration of marine microbial communities. Most of Micro B3’s results are documented in peer-reviewed publications with full texts available through OpenAire (http://www.microb3.eu/media-material/publications).
Results achieved Work has focused on mobilizing the larger marine research community for sampling of the world’s ocean, which was accomplished by two global Ocean Sampling Days (OSDs) on 21st June 2014 and 2015. Their success was largely due to the engagement of a network of over 150 marine sites and their in-kind contributions of samples and expertise (https://mb3is.megx.net/osd-registry/list). In addition to the Micro B3-funded sequencing of 500 amplicon profiles and 150 metagenomes, eukaryotic samples from 33 sites were sequenced through a LifeWatch fund. OSD included the citizen science campaign MyOSD (www.my-osd.org), based on a Smartphone App and sampling kit, to raise awareness for marine microbes and their ecological roles, with resulting data immediately shown in a global map (https://mb3is.megx.net/osd-app/samples). A data-flow model was implemented between four European infrastructures (SeaDataNet, EurOBIS, EMBL-EBI/ENA and PANGAEA). It allows for direct sharing of metadata and provides access to important contextual data. The published
Micro B3 Standard Operating Procedures and Reporting Standards allow marine data to be collected in an orchestrated way and consistently with national and international legal commitments. These standards are expected to support marine microbial biotechnology for industrial applications in the near future (https://mb3is.megx.net/).Biodiversity research in Micro B3 has led to many novel published results, based on new tools. Several bioinformatics tools were developed and tested for biotechnological applications. On the legal side, an Access and Benefit Sharing model agreement (ABS-MA) and a data policy were developed, tested during training courses and utilised during the two OSDs.
Further expected results Diverse results from genome mining for anti-tumour compounds, enzyme toolboxes, libraries and new expression systems for experimental screening are becoming available. The Micro B3 final conference in Brussels (02 – 05 November 2015) will target policy makers and industry leaders to promote uptake of the novel technologies to access marine knowledge.
Impact Micro B3 created a new kind of communication culture in marine science by enabling free exchange of data and skills within the community at large. Micro B3 particularly fosters: 1.Research on ‘environmental intelligence’ of European Open Ocean and coastal marine ecosystems for better understanding of their diversity and the functions they contain. 2.Community interaction, technology transfer and data sharing between science and the bio-economy to overcome fragmentation in European marine research as well as promote product and service developments. 3.Public awareness on the importance of marine research and the fundamental role of marine microbes in ecosystem functioning. Finally, Micro B3 offers unique analytical and feedback tools in terms of integrating genomic, environmental and ecological data for identifying known and unknown marine genes and their functions. It provides bioinformatics capacities for data mining, in-silico modelling and the exploration of marine microbial communities for downstream use in biotechnological applications.
Project № 287589
EU contribution: € 8,987,491
Duration: 48 months
From: January 2012
Coordinator:
Frank Oliver GLÖCKNER
JACOBS UNIV. BREMEN GGMBH, DE
14 | P a g e
Objective PERSEUS has created a marine research governance framework that unites scientific research with policy development. The project has established a collaborative framework comprising scientists, policy makers, and the wider public, to share knowledge and promote informed decision-making. PERSEUS is intrinsically linked to other EU policies and actions in both the Mediterranean and Black Seas. Approach PERSEUS worked for 3.5 years in process-oriented dedicated field studies, modelling and observations in the Southern European Seas (SES) to help fill the knowledge gaps on the effects of pressures exerted on ecosystems. Based on this scientific knowledge and results the development of Adaptive Policies and Scenarios was achieved contributing to promote better governance in order to reach Good Environmental Status (GES) across the SES, enhancing the concept of MSFD also in the non-EU counties in both basins. Results achieved The identification of pressure/impact/knowledge gaps of the MSFD descriptors in the SES has been published, addressed to policy makers, and proposes further research topics necessary for reaching GES. The Eco-regionalisation of the Mediterranean Sea helps provide an ecological geographical framework for ecosystem management; this characterises the main species assemblages and environmental features and quantifies the various environmental and human pressures. It can help predict future changes according to environmental characteristics and the spatial analysis can then be used by policy makers, to identify the systems most at risk. PERSEUS contributed to filling a number of gaps and needs for an integrated observing system in the SES. New multi-parametric moorings have been installed and new glider transects were supported in the southern Mediterranean. New Argo floats were deployed in the Black Sea and sustained ship campaigns were supported in key locations, while multi-parametric moorings were upgraded with new sensors. New tools were implemented CPR and VMS, while field experiments tested the new marine litter monitoring tools. An Open Access European data delivery protocol has been established. Three tools have been produced: 1) The “Tool for identification and assessment of Environmental Aspects in Ports” (TEAP) to assist port authorities in identifying aspects and assess their significance; to be used by any type of port authority/manager; 2) The “Adaptive Marine Policy (AMP)
Toolbox”, using a five-step process to guide policy-makers and provide resources (thematic databases, models and examples) to support MSFD implementation; and 3) The concept of a decision system on who, how and when to contact in case of an oil spill using a Geographical Information Systems (GIS) platform. All tools have been demonstrated at several events and are available online. Finally, a small, innovative, research and survey vessel has been designed, the blue prints of which will be delivered at the end of 2015. This vessel is a powerful scientific survey tool for SES coastal areas, ports and shallow navigation channels. Citizen-science campaigns were developed for jellyfish and marine litter and through the latter, PERSEUS has enhanced the European Environment Agency initiative for the SES. The project gave the opportunity to secondary school children to be trained as marine scientists via two dedicated sea expeditions, accomplished via the PERSEUS@school network. Further expected results The main results include: the assessment of pressures, processes and impacts on the SES open sea and coastal areas through field and modelling and remote sensing studies; the development of a long-term monitoring strategy using the integrated observing systems in the SES; and a Policy Brief on Collaborative science, beyond EU, to support policy frameworks. Regional stakeholder workshops will promote MSFD principles and approaches in non-EU countries. Additionally, several meetings with key-stakeholders focusing on the measures to maintain GES, will help PERSEUS to gain feedback and a positive outcome. Impact PERSEUS attempted to answer questions regarding the ecosystem 'health' and to help policy-makers like EU, UNEP/MAP and Black Sea Commission, understand why marine protection is an essential social investment, while helping them make informed decisions about the measures that need to be taken to achieve GES in the SES. The variety of results and tools to assist policymakers to achieve/maintain GES is a prime example of how effectively these resonate with current societal and environmental needs.
Project № 287600
EU contribution: € 12,973,123
Duration: 48 months
From: January 2012
Coordinator:
Evangelos PAPATHANASSIOU
HELLENIC CENTRE FOR MARINE RESEARCH, EL
15 | P a g e
Objective Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are restricted to national boundaries. CoCoNet is building guidelines to shift the protection of our natural capital from a national to a transnational perspective, with the creation of networks of MPAs. Clean energy production is a strategic EU objective. Offshore Wind Farms (OWF) are crucial for the achievement of this goal in Northern Europe, while being absent in Southern European Seas. This gap must be filled with the greatest respect of environmental integrity. Approach CoCoNet is a holistic project that involves scientists of 22 countries from a broad range of disciplines, from physical oceanography to marine conservation, socio-economy and engineering. The knowledge gathered during the project is stored in a GEO-DATABASE, as “layers” with the crucial features of every descriptor for each discipline. The guidelines for MPA networks and the smart wind atlas, the main outcomes of the project, will stem from the interplay of the various approaches. Results achieved The novel concept of Cells of Ecosystem Functioning (CEF), as conservation and management units, is the main achievement of the project, and provides a conceptual basis on which to base the definition of the Networks of MPAs and the identification of suitable areas for Off-Shore Wind Farms. Each CEF can be defined as “a marine volume with coherent oceanographic, biological and ecological features, leading to higher degrees of connectivity than with nearby CEFs”.The Networks of MPAs, an expression of political and socio-economic actions, thus, will have to fit with the ecological setting that forms a “natural” network, comprising not only surfaces but also volumes, so embracing offshore environments and the deep sea. The fieldwork and the review of previous knowledge allowed defining a protocol to identify CEFs, mostly based on connectivity. Physical oceanography demarcates portions of the marine space that are connected by currents at sub-regional scales, especially by gyres, eddies, fronts, upwellings and downwellings. To define the “realized connectivity”, the oceanographic “potential connectivity” has been matched with the expression of biodiversity in similar habitats across wide spaces, identifying the areas in which the features of biodiversity are homogeneous, furthermore the presence
of propagules (dispersal bodies) has been studied in the water column, and the similarities in genetic make-ups for selected species across the pilot areas have been used. The homogeneity of structures is also a proxy for ecosystem functioning in a highly connected marine space. The upgrade of observation systems, the fulfilment of the requirements of GES, and the extension of protection and management from the coast (where most MPAs lie) to the high and deep seas is a much relevant outcome to enforce the current EU policies in sustainability and environmental integrity. All results are conducive to better manage the natural capital, in terms of energy production and sustainable development. Relevance for society: awareness of the vital issue of the conservation of Nature with increased ocean literacy; awareness of the need of international collaboration to protect our seas; construction of a coherent scientific community across 22 states in three continents, with outstanding results in scientific diplomacy. Relevance for industry: feasibility of the realization of OWF; better exploitation of touristic assets stemming from a well-managed marine environment; measurement of sustainability in terms of reaching Good Environmental Status; stimulation of research to produce next generation instruments to measure GES descriptors; availability of conceptual tools to regulate fisheries on the basis of bio-ecological principles. Relevance for Environment: the use of CEFs will allow for a natural approach to environmental management and conservation. Further expected results The final results of the project will be the production of a set of guidelines to establish networks of MPAs and OWF in the Mediterranean and the Black Seas. The project has assembled a community of scientists from 22 countries in three continents that are able, with the acquired expertise through collaboration, to tackle complex problems with a holistic approach. Impact It has posed the basis for a holistic approach to the management and protection of the marine environment, reconciling isolated disciplines. The GEO-Database containing all the generated knowledge is a solid basis to enhance a science-based approach to environmental issues, both to frame problems and to provide solutions that will lead to a really sustainable development in the way we interact with our seas.
Project № 287844
EU contribution: € 9,000,000
Duration: 48 months
From: February 2012
Coordinator:
Ferdinando BOERO
CONSIGLIO NAZIONALE DELLE
RICERCHE, IT
16 | P a g e
FP7-0CEAN-20129
Following the two previous 'The Ocean of Tomorrow' cross-thematic calls, several topics had been launched with 'The Ocean of Tomorrow 2012' initiative to support the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008/56/C). Cooperation involved Theme 2 'Food, Agriculture, Fisheries and Biotechnology' (FAFB), Theme 5 'Energy', Theme 6 'Environment (including Climate Change)' and Theme 7 'Transport (including Aeronautics)'. The focus was on research gaps about the definition and monitoring of the 'Good Environmental Status' (GES) of EU waters, to be achieved by 2020. Nine coordinated topics were launched in order to address a wide range of marine related issues relevant to several descriptors of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive10. As a result, 10 projects11 had been selected for funding for an EU contribution of almost 44M€.
9 http://ec.europa.eu/research/agriculture/ocean2012/index_en.html
10 http://ec.europa.eu/environment/water/marine/ges.htm
11 http://ec.europa.eu/research/bioeconomy/fish/research/ocean/ocean_tomorrow_2012_en.htm
17 | P a g e
18 | P a g e
Objective Escapes or releases of domesticated aquaculture fish pose a potential risk of adverse effects on native fish gene pools. In order to assure a prosperous and sustainable future for European aquaculture, the development of tools for identifying wild and farmed fish, interbreeding between them and effects on key fitness traits (survival and reproduction) is essential. AquaTrace will develop innovative molecular genetic tools, which will vastly improve the ability for tracing farmed fish in the wild and for documentation of their potential effects on wild conspecifics. The project will also contribute to environmental protection under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) and is relevant for the descriptor n°1 on biological diversity as well as descriptor n°2 on non-indigenous species. Approach The project is using cutting edge genomic methods for developing thousands of SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms) genetic markers for the marine species and will start to apply these markers to baseline samples of wild and aquaculture fish. Subsequently, small, specific, powerful and cost effective, SNP panels for determining the origin of the fish, will be developed as end-user traceability tools. Already developed large SNP panels for salmon and trout are now being applied to model species maintained in under controlled experimental conditions, allowing identification of the genetic background of the fitness effects of domestication and interbreeding. Results achieved A trans-European survey of aquaculture breeding practices. The output will be used by all types of stakeholders from fish farmers to policy makers. A report is available and a scientific manuscript will soon be submitted. An online species leaflets, which summarizes and synthesizes key information on the marine and model species targeted by the project. The results are highly useful for scientists, fish farmers and NGO’s. The leaflets are available to stakeholders in an easily accessible format at our website. Comprehensive pan-European databases of genetic information (+ 2000 SNPs per species) for baseline samples of more than 9.000 wild and aquaculture fish. The data can be used for aquaculture impact assessment, but also to “mine” for genomic information. The data will be publicly accessible.
Controlled experiments of salmon showed that farmed fish kept under different temperatures (on average) outgrew wild fish, while farmed/wild hybrids displayed intermediate growth. This is an important finding, which will have important bearing for predicting the potential impact of escapees. A scientific manuscript has been submitted.
Further expected results A comprehensive description of the genetic resources and their geographical distribution in wild and aquaculture fish for the targeted species. This will allow an assessment of the impact of aquaculture on native gene pools, now and in the future as well identifying new raw material for the industry. Specific genetic tools, which can identify the farmed or wild origin of fish, as well as their geographical location or farm of origin. These tools can be used for forensic purposes to trace back escapes, but also in relation to traceability and authenticity issues in the food industry. An assessment of trait differences between wild and farmed fish as well as their genomic background. I.e. how different are wild and farmed fish, what are the consequences of those differences and which genomic regions are responsible for them. A “white book” including risk assessment and management recommendations in relation to the interactions between wild and farmed fish. The report will be based on the collective scientific output from AquaTrace. Impact This project addresses the common challenge of Europe to develop sustainable aquaculture through improved competitiveness and environmentally-friendly production. As the potential adverse effects of aquaculture's escapees or releases are expected to affect all Member States, international collaboration is the only option. This project benefits from the collective cutting-edge expertise and infrastructure of research institutions and aquaculture industry across Europe. The outcome of the project will be made available through a common database allowing researchers, the industry, policy makers and the European consumer a long term benefit. Overall the project will support the development of sustainable European aquaculture and contribute to achievement of the "Good Environmental Status" (GES) as requested under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive.
Project № 311920
EU contribution: € 2,999,184
Duration: 48 months
From: November 2012
Coordinator:
Einar Eg NIELSEN
DANMARKS TEKNISKE UNIVERSITET, DK
19 | P a g e
Objective The main objective of AQUO project is to provide policy makers with practical guidelines in order to mitigate underwater noise impacts of shipping on marine life. In AQUO project, solutions for ship design, including propeller and cavitation noise, and solutions related to shipping control and regulation are defined. Exploitation of the AQUO project results is expected to meet the requirements of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (Descriptor 11 on underwater noise). Approach The project is supported by different methods and tools, which will be used to assess the effectiveness of noise mitigation measures in order to select the most appropriate ones. In particular: an underwater noise footprint assessment tool connectable with AIS shipping data, dedicated bio-acoustic studies in order to derive criteria for shipping underwater noise thresholds, predictive models for ship radiated noise and experiments at sea to gather data. Results achieved Development and validation of a shipping underwater noise footprint assessment tool, based on QUONOPS, a patented tool developed by Quiet-Oceans. It is related to AIS (Automatic information System) ship data and can assess the environmental impact of shipping noise in a maritime area or predict the effectiveness of different noise mitigation solutions. Improvement and/or validation of models and methods to predict radiated noise from ship propellers, taking into account cavitation phenomena and interaction effects. The results allow a better understanding of physical phenomena and selecting design solutions to make ships more silent (including propeller design to minimize cavitation). Ship underwater radiated noise measurement method - development of new vibro-acoustic measurements tools and methods applied to real experiments at sea, to overcome the limitations in existing standards to measure ship underwater radiated noise (for instance in shallow waters), AQUO project developed a new procedure that has been applied validated on-site and used on 6 different vessels. Bureau Veritas URN Notation measurement procedure is based on the latter. Establishment of criteria and good practices for noise protection on marine life, based on analysis of available data and specific bio-acoustic experiments on
representative marine species. Experiments have been conducted on cods (displacement effect), harbour porpoises (masking effect) and invertebrates (tolerance of cephalopods to low frequency ship radiated noise). Bio-acoustic criteria are being derived (summer 2015). List of design improvement solutions to reduce ship underwater radiated noise, without reducing fuel efficiency of the ship, A list of possible solutions to mitigate the underwater radiated noise (URN) from shipping has been disseminated towards end-users. The most promising ones are being assessed in terms of URN reduction, fuel efficiency and impact on marine life (summer 2015).Establishment of practical guidelines to reduce shipping noise for a quieter ocean, providing responses to the needs of policy makers. Common practical guidelines are being written in collaboration with SONIC project and will be disseminated towards the IMO and the European Commission. A more detailed document will be issued by AQUO by the end of the project. Further expected results Bio-acoustic criteria for three different marine species representative of European waters will be available by the end of the project to assess the potential effects of shipping noise. On-going computations will provide results on the most efficient solutions in terms of ship design or ship traffic control to reduce the shipping underwater noise impact on these marine species. Impact A methodology has been provided by AQUO project to assess and mitigate the underwater radiated noise (URN) from shipping. Expected large impact on design guidelines for new ships and on ship traffic control through a shipping noise footprint assessment tool, on-site ship URN measurements, validated numerical or model scale ship URN predictions and bio-acoustic criteria developed with dedicated experiments on marine species.
Project № 314227
EU contribution: € 2,999,571
Duration: 36 months
From: October 2012
Coordinator:
Christian AUDOLY
DCNS Research CEMIS/AC, FR
20 | P a g e
Objective BENTHIS will provide the science base to assess the impact of current fishing practices and, in collaboration with the industry, develop innovative fishing technology and management scenarios to mitigate the adverse impacts. In this respect it also contributes to the objective of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) to achieve a Good Environmental Status of marine EU waters by 2020, especially regarding biological diversity and seafloor integrity. Approach The project follows a multi-disciplinary approach with strong stakeholder involvement. Sea trials will be conducted with innovative fishing gears (pelagic otter boards and pulse trawls). Generic tools will be developed to assess the impact of fishing gears based on the physical characteristics of the gear and the morphological and life history characteristics of the benthic organisms. Bio-economic models will be developed to quantify the effect of mitigation measures on the socio-economy of the fishing sector. The models will allow an integrated assessment of both the ecology and the socioeconomic consequences. Results achieved Fishing gear foot prints. Based on the results of a pan-European industry survey, the footprint of the important bottom trawls have been estimated. These data allow the prediction of physical impact of individual fishing operations from standard logbook information of vessel size, gear type and catch. Results are published in the scientific literature. Fishing pressure maps. For the first time, high-resolution maps of fishing pressure in the North-east Atlantic and Mediterranean waters were made. These maps provide a common knowledge base to all stakeholders and are needed for an ecosystem approach to fisheries management (EAFM). In combination with information on the benthic community in different sea bed habitats, indicators for the trawling impact on the benthic ecosystem are derived to use for assessing the sea bed integrity. Trawling impact in habitat dependent. In the Dutch North Sea, a negative effect of trawling on species richness was observed in relatively deep areas with fine sediments but not in more shallow areas with coarse bottoms. These habitat-dependent effects of trawling suggest that conservation of benthic biodiversity might be achieved by reducing trawling intensity only in a strategically chosen fraction of space, instead of protecting areas that are most impacted by bottom trawls. Benthos recovery. By counting the animals on sea bed photos that have not been trawled for variable length of time
the recovery of abundance was estimated. Depending on the species group, recovery took less than 1 year to more than a decade, with faster recovery rates in areas with faster tidal currents. The recovery of large species was faster when conspecifics were abundant within a radius of 6 km. If managers want to minimize overall bottom fishing impacts in an area, trawling and dredging should be limited to more resilient areas that recover quickly, while unfished patches of seabed should be maintained to enhance recovery rates.Traps in the Aegean Sea: In the deep blue waters of the southern Aegean Sea (EL) fish are traditionally caught using otter trawls, long lines and bottom nets. Baited traps could offer a good alternative to the traditional trawling. Results of the first trials with Norwegian cod pot at two trawl fishing grounds were a bit disappointing. Camera observations of the fish behaviour inside and around the traps will be used to modify the trap design that will be tested in the next set of trials. Technological innovation. Traditionally, otterboards that keep the mouth of the net open during fishing dig through the seafloor, causing a turbid sediment cloud that scare the fish into the net. In Italy two companies started the development of semi-pelagic otterboards to reduce their impact on the seafloor community. Exploitation and dissemination. The results have been published in the scientific literature and presented at various international symposia. On the regional level, results have been used in workshops, for instance on the implementation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Further expected results In the next phase we expect to quantify the sensitivity of different sea bed habitats for the impact of different gears. Different management scenarios developed in consultation with stakeholders will be assessed in their contribution to the reduction of trawling impacts on the benthic ecosystem in the different regional seas. Impact Results are published in the scientific literature and made available to ICES and the EEA. On the regional level, results have been used as input at workshops and stakeholder meetings. The tools developed to quantify the fishing pressure and impacts of bottom trawl gear have already been provided to ICES to develop indicators for the Seabed Integrity (MSFD) and for the planning of MPAs.
Project № 312088
EU contribution: € 5,994,250
Duration: 60 months
From: October 2012
Coordinator:
Adriaan Dirk RIJNSDORP
STICHTING DIENST LANDBOUWKUNDIG ONDERZOEK, NL
21 | P a g e
Objective About 45% of oil-deriving plastic waste is currently disposed of in landfills, where it undergoes (photo) degradation with the production of small fragments which enter the marine environment, where they can exert toxic effects. BIOCLEAN aimed at developing innovative, eco-efficient, pilot scale validated biotechnological solutions to safely degrade plastic wastes accumulated in terrestrial facilities thus preventing marine litter, and to enhance biodegradation of microplastics in seas. Approach To obtain novel, robust and efficient plastic-degrading microbes (ie, bacteria and fungi, aerobic/anaerobic, pure cultures and consortia) from wasted plastics recovered from various terrestrial waste treating facilities and marine habitats (Aegean and Norwegian seas) and to use them to develop i) novel biotechnological or physical/chemical-biotechnological integrated processes able to biodegrade plastic wastes, and ii) bioaugmentation protocols to enhance biodegradation of (micro)plastics persisting in terrestrial waste treatment facilities and marine environments. Results achieved A collection of novel robust bacteria and fungi able to partially degrade/transform films of plastics of polyethylene (PE) and its variants Low Density PE (LDPE) and Linear Low Density PE (LLDPE) (5 cultures), polypropylene (PP)(5 cultures), polyvinyl chloride (PVC)(14 cultures) and polystyrene (PS) (1 cultures) as well as some of their additives (3-4 cultures). The microbes are belonging to the partners who selected/isolated them. They can be patented, described in scientific international publications, used for developing tailored processes. Relevant for industry, environment. New, pilot-scale assessed biological or hybrid chemical/physical-biological processes able to partially degrade PVC foils and, to less extent, PE and PP plastic films. They can be patented, and described in scientific international journals. Relevant for industry, environment and policy. Lab and pilot-scale bioaugmentation protocols for intensifying (micro)plastics biodegradation in soils, composting/anaerobic waste treatment facilities and marine environments. They often displayed limited activity but will be described in international publications. Relevant for industry, environment, and policy. Site-specific measures for mitigating plastic pollution and improving the environmental status of Aegean Sea. They can be described in international publications. Relevant for environment and policy.
Dissemination to the industry, environmental protection authorities and associations (via PlasticsEurope -full partner and leader of implementation/dissemination WP-, its international initiatives and web-site); Dissemination to the scientific community (via partners’ participation in international conferences and workshops and international publications); Training and career development (training on plastic safe management and disposal to young scientists at ECOMONDO2014 exhibition -Italy, 2014- and at the DEDISA municipality -Crete 2015-); Communication with the general public (via partners and PlasticsEurope). Relevant for society, industry, environment and policy. Further expected results i)The patenting/description on international scientific journals of the novel plastic degrading bacteria and fungi identified and tested; ii) validation of the pilot-scale biological or hybrid chemical/physical-biological processes developed for the degradation of PVC foil and, to less extent, PE and PP films and of the pilot-scale developed bioaugmentation protocols, and iii) finalization of protocols for mitigating plastic pollution and improving the environmental status of Aegean Sea. Impact The knowledge developed by BIOCLEAN would contribute to: i) better know the actual potential of plastic wastes occurring in the environment to undergo to natural biodegradation and the major type of naturally-occurring microbes responsible for their biodegradation under a variety of terrestrial and marine habitats; ii) improve the monitoring tools and mitigation measures for better addressing marine litter and the Aegean Sea, and iii) better clarify that the current environmental impact of the EU oil-based plastic sector can be mitigated by assisting its gradual transition towards a market consisting of fully recyclable (bio)plastics and biodegradable plastics.
Project № 312100
EU contribution: € 2,995,988
Duration: 36 months
From: September 2012
Coordinator:
Fabio FAVA
ALMA MATER STUDIORUM-UNIVERSITA DI BOLOGNA, IT
22 | P a g e
Objective Low levels of marine litter that do not cause harm are a descriptor for determining Good Environmental Status (GES) under Europe’s Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). The CleanSea Project aims at providing Europeans with more knowledge, methods and tools to better define, monitor and take action towards achieving a marine environment free of harmful litter. Approach CleanSea researchers wanted to think about marine litter in new, interdisciplinary ways to help them find a way forward for dealing with European marine litter. Advanced techniques in the fields of ecotoxicology, analytical chemistry, oceanographic modelling, marine monitoring and materials biodegradation testing were used to assess the distribution, fate and impacts of marine litter. Economic, institutional and policy analysis research and participatory approaches identified what is currently blocking our ability to mitigate marine litter effectively and how clear the way to litter-free seas through the right mix of policy options and measures. Results achieved CleanSea natural scientists used state-of-the-art techniques for analysing micro-sized litter in the bodies of a wide array of species.No marine species in Europe appear to be unexposed to marine litter, not even microorganisms and invasive species. The research shows sediments and benthic habitats are a major sink for litter of all sizes entering the sea. Data representing tonnes of seabed litter was gathered from the North Sea and Black Sea with the collaboration of fishermen, waste managers and marine researchers. With plastic materials as the major component of marine litter, researchers observed toxic monomers and chemical additives leaching out of plastic litter. It is not yet widely recognised that plastic litter brings not only polymers and potentially toxic micro- and nanoparticles into marine ecosystems, but very high volumes of toxic chemicals too. Besides physical harm, investigations so far indicate that exposure to very fine particles is toxicologically harmful to both plant and animal species. Litter fragmentation studies demonstrated that every large plastic item in the sea today is destined to become micro and nano-sized plastic in the years to come. In a preliminary trial to model the impact of plastic particle pollution on marine ecosystem productivity, between 5and 10% reduction of zooplankton biomass was predicted, such a change near the base of the food chain would negatively impact marine
ecology and fisheries.Gaps have been identified, in the governance of marine litter in the four marine regions in Europe. Upstream solutions are needed for marine litter as opposed of simply continuously trying to clean up the mess marine litter makes. Prevention is more economical, effective and innovative than attempts to clean up widely dispersed, continuous emissions of litter. Faced with serious potential economic losses associated with marine litter, coastal communities around Europe are forced to try to clean up their coastlines and ports at significant cost, with taxpayers footing the bill year after year. There are real and immediate negative economic impacts of marine litter on tourism, fishing and shipping sectors as well.What researchers learned is that we need ambition, strong compliance and monitoring mechanisms. CleanSea found that there is a major role for government to play in this multi-actor, political problem, and that the market on its own has failed to prevent marine litter. Surprising too may be the role of human behaviour and that it’s not solely financial incentives that drive business decisions, but also the desire for social recognition and to contribute to healthy seas among business people. Further expected results
During the final stage of the project, the focus has been on policy options and economic instruments to reduce marine litter. All results will be pulled together in a roadmap for litter-free seas – guidance for courageous stakeholders to reduce marine litter across all stages of the waste hierarchy and product lifespans. In addition to scientific publications, website and social media posts, CleanSea’s ‘message to the future’ will take the form of a short documentary film premiering in December 2015. Impact These collaborative research has produced tools and methods to better understand where marine litter is, what negative impacts it is having and what we can do about it. CleanSea has fostered the kind of international stakeholder dialogue needed to increase support and cultural acceptance of the many types of actions, large and small, that can effectively address this societal and environmental challenge and support Member States with their Programmes of Measures to reduce marine
litter.
Project № 308370
EU contribution: € 2,986,571
Duration: 36 months
From: January 2013
Coordinator:
Heather LESLIE
STICHTING VU-VUMC, NL
23 | P a g e
Objective To: i) improve our understanding of the impact of human activities and climate change on marine biodiversity status; ii) test indicators and develop new, to assess biodiversity status; iii) develop, test and validate innovative integrative modelling and monitoring tools, applying traditional sampling and innovative data acquisition devices for biodiversity monitoring and assessment in a cost-effective way; iv) propose and disseminate strategies and measures for ecosystems’ adaptive management. Approach DEVOTES focuses on the biodiversity, food-webs and seafloor integrity descriptors of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), which are among the 11 descriptors used to assess the Environmental Status of marine waters. We use 8 case studies distributed across the 4 EU Regional Seas as means to obtain data, refine, test and develop indicators and models and test integrative assessment tools developed in the project. Results achieved Proposed a refined and operational definition of GEnS (Good Environmental Status): Borja et al. 2013. Produced an in-depth analysis of marine monitoring networks in Europe aiming to assess the status of marine biodiversity monitoring focusing on Marine Strategy Framework Directive Descriptors. Analysed >200 pieces of marine environmental legislation, providing suggestions on how to integrate them, and highlighting the need of a more efficient coordination between administrative bodies. Boyes & Elliott (2014). Analysed the legislative, policy and regulatory barriers preventing to achieve the GEnS and summarized them in the report “Key Barriers of Achieving Good Environmental Status (GES)”. Provided guidance on the steps towards defining rules for aggregation and integration of information at multiple levels of ecosystem organization. Borja et al. 2014 Provided recommendations for better implementation of the MSFD in the report “DEVOTES recommendations for the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive”. Released the DEVOTool software that allows practitioners (scientists, managers, decision makers) to access to the indicator catalogue and to browse, search and analyze the metadata recorded. Reviewed available ecological models to assess the status within the MSFD. Piroddi et al., 2015. Determined how climate change will affect the achievement of GEnS within the MSFD: Elliott et al., 2015. Determined the relationships
between biodiversity and functionality and the implications within the MSFD: Strong et al., 2015. Deployed and tested new devices for benthic metagenetic analyses (e.g. Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) and Artificial Substrate Units (ASUs)), and published the “Report on application of non- invasive biosensor”, an Innovative Monitoring Technique proposed by DEVOTES. Contributed to the training of more than 250 young researchers, including PhD and Master students carrying out their research in the framework of DEVOTES, and participants to more than 10 training events. DEVOTES has published more than 70 papers and presented their results to more than 120 conferences, workshops and symposia. Further expected results During coming year we expect to finalize the environmental status assessment tool and software, harmonizing it to be used at EU seas by scientists and decision makers. We plan to showcase our innovative monitoring tools and software during events dedicated to specific end-users, and to make them available to the general public. Cost-benefit analysis of monitoring practices and management measures will be carried out to provide guidance for future efforts in the context of the MSFD. Impact The DEVOTES knowledge outputs are of direct relevance to the practitioners responsible for the implementation of the MSFD, including the EU Commission and Member States. DEVOTES has analysed suitable monitoring networks and strategies and provided cost-effective, harmonized approaches for improving the assessment of the Environmental Status. DEVOTES is making progress by providing new technologies such as monitoring tools and software, but also new coherent management tools for MSFD purposes.
Project № 308392
EU contribution: € 8,997,984
Duration: 48 months
From: November 2012
Coordinator:
Angel BORJA
FUNDACION AZTI/AZTI FUNDAZIOA, ES
24 | P a g e
Objective Seafood is recognised as a high quality, healthy and safe food item, but it can accumulate environmental chemical contaminants with potential to impact on human health. In Europe, various EU laws and national requirements ensure that seafood is tested and monitored for most of these harmful contaminants to guarantee they do not exceed established maximum levels. However, recent advances in analytical capabilities have indicated that more chemicals in the seafood environment could be pollutants with potential environmental and public health risk, but there is a lack of adequate data to determine their risk. ECsafeSEAFOOD aims to assess and evaluate food safety issues related to these contaminants of emerging concern present in seafood. Approach Development of tools to assess environmental contaminants more efficiently. Monitoring of priority pollutants in seafood and establishing hazard level for human health. Studying the effect of processing and cooking on the behaviour of priority environmental contaminants in seafood. Studying the transfer of contaminants between the environment and seafood taking into account the effect of climate change. Developing the understanding of the public health impacts of these chemical hazards, through the toxicological characterisation of the selected seafood contaminants. Developing and assessing mitigation strategies to achieve safety seafood. Overall, the project will provide scientific evidence to inform further development of common food safety, public health and environmental policies (Specifically contributing to descriptors 9 and 10 of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008/56/EC)). Results achieved The project has developed sensitive, rapid screening methods for targeted contaminants of emerging concern such as chloramphenicol (an antibiotic useful to treatment some bacterial infections), azaspiracids (marine algal toxins), tetrodotoxin (a potent neurotoxin) and sulphonamides (used in antibiotics and diuretics). These detection tools are suitable for screening of large numbers of samples and are ready for uptake by environmental monitoring agencies, research laboratories and analytical laboratories. ECsafeSEAFOOD has also determined the prevalence of certain marine toxins and contaminants of emerging concern in specific commercial seafood species from different locations around Europe. As this vital information comes to
light, it is communicated to local food safety authorities so that they can: a) implement measures to help prevent adverse health effects due to contaminant consumption, and b) confirm/refine the European Maximum Reference Levels (MRLs) in seafood for contaminants or biotoxins that are real hazards and for which no legislation exists or the information is still insufficient. ECsafeSEAFOOD has created an online database which collates all related literature on contaminants of emerging concern in seafood species and relevant project results as they become available. This unique tool is useful for improving contaminant diagnostics and seafood risk assessment for food safety authorities and food diagnostic firms, as well as the seafood and aquaculture industries. It can also be used by policy makers to help inform policy and advisory guidelines and by funding authorities to highlight the deficits in seafood contaminant research. Further expected results The effects of cooking and processing procedures on different contaminants.The effects of global warming on bioaccumulation and elimination of contaminants. The toxicological impact of the contaminants and thus their effect on public health. Exposure assessment of different contaminants of emerging concern to consumers. Assessment of the use of microalgae to remove environmental contaminants (phycoremediation). Online tool for interest groups as a mitigation strategy to minimise potential risks for consumers. Impact ECsafeSEAFOOD will contribute to ensuring availability of safe, high-quality seafood to European consumers through increased information on contaminant exposure and toxicological impacts, as well as development of new detection tools. Furthermore, enhanced consumer confidence will strengthen the competitiveness of producers of seafood products in the EU which will, in turn, have positive economic effects.Improved knowledge on the presence of priority contaminants in the most consumed seafood in the EU will inform dietary advice for reduced contaminant exposure. Information on contaminant exposure will be disseminated to a broad range of consumer interest groups, food producers and food authorities and will hence contribute to an improved common understanding on seafood safety between different sectors.
Project № 311820
EU contribution: € 3,999,874
Duration: 48 months
From: February 2013
Coordinator: António MARQUES
INSTITUTO PORTUGUES DO MAR E DA ATMOSFERA IP, PT
25 | P a g e
Objective Oil spill disasters remain a worldwide problem that generate massive manpower and logistical demand in an effort to limit the ecological damage and the clean-up of coastline and aquatic environments. Despite our long experience with oil spills, current response technologies do not satisfactorily address all aspects of the problem. The objective of the Kill•Spill project is to provide bio-based solutions and it represents a European initiative fully committed to tackle oil spill disasters in an integrated and interdisciplinary fashion employing highly efficient biotechnology-based remediation strategies. Approach An integrated approach that considers at the same time: (i) metabolic requirements of biodegrading organisms alongside the properties of the oil, (ii) environmental limitations on oil biodegradation and (iii) innovative delivery mechanisms for bioremediation agents, has been followed to develop a series of bio-based oil spill reponse products. The field testing of the developed technologies in actual oil spills that will occur in Eastern Mediterranean Sea and in North/Norweignian Sea over the next 12 months. Kill•Spill has secured the partnership of two SMEs whose primary business is the emergency response for combating oil spills in both marine regions. Results achieved Biosensors for in situ monitoring of hydrocarbons have been developed; in particular, plasmids have been developed which allow cells to respond and currently, they are being validated. Robust, easy-to-use and fast protocols for the in situ detection, identification and quantification of the most relevant hydrocarbon degrading bacteria using FISH and 16S rRNA-targeted oligonucleotide probes have been developed. The First VIT® kits produced are currently commercially available. A DNA microarray has been developed and validated as a tool for the rapid detection of microbial degradation of oil compounds in the marine environment. The extent of biodegradation of crude oil in contaminated samples can be determined by the developed Compound-Specific Isotope Analysis (CSIA).The open source oil spill software package MEDSLIK-II has been modified by adopting the “pseudo-component” approach for simulating weathering processes and the effect of bioremediation for longer term simulations has been incorporated in the package. HeiQ Materials AG developed a first generation nonwoven Oilguard fabric for shoreline protection following off shore oil spills.A treated
mineral, stearic acid treated calcium carbonate with a mean particle size of 1.5 μm has an excellent sorbent capacity and sedimentation behaviour and can be used as a sinking agent of petroleum hydrocarbons.A novel formulation, Aerobeads™, has been developed which uses dried OxygelTM in combination with activated Calcium Carbonate to produce a sinking agent with oxygenation capabilities of the absorbed hydrocarbons enhancing their biodegradation even when they reach the sea bottom. Plant-based biosurfactants have proven to work equally well to microbial produced biosurfactants in enhancing biodegradation rates in seawater.The capability to produce microbially derived surfactants at large scale and at reduced cost has been achieved. Novel low cost oleophilic biostimulants have been developed for the enhanced biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons in seawater or in ex situ treatment of contaminated beach sand.Efficient clean-up of contaminated sediments due to oil spills two novel bio-electrochemical technologies have been developed the “Kill-Spill Snorkel” which aims to accelerate biodegradation processes and the “Kill-Spill ElectrO2” which aims to generate molecular oxygen via water electrolysis, with this latter supporting the aerobic oxidation of hydrocarbons. The Modular Slurry System has been validated and combined with novel sorbent materials to recover petroleum hydrocarbons from the oil slurry, or with a novel oxygenation system (OxygelTM by BIOREM) to enhance hydrocarbon degradation. Further expected results – December 2016 Enrichment and characterization of high-pressure adapted HC-degrading bacteria. Production of biogenic mobilizing agents for ex situ treatment of contaminated sediments and sand. Multifucntional bioremediation agents formulated for deep sea releases.Smart gate systems for controlled release of biostimulants to hydrocarbon droplets in the marine environment Immobilized hydrocarbon degraders in functionalized minerals in the presence of biostimulants and OxygelTM. Impact A toolbox of highly innovative (bio)technologies are being developed and made readily available to all emergency response companies subject to final approval by the European Marine Safety Agency and related Member State agencies.
Project № 312139
EU contribution: € 8,996,599
Duration: 48 months
From: January 2013
Coordinator:
Nicolas KALOGERAKIS
TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF CRETE, EL
26 | P a g e
Objective The first goal of SONIC is to enhance the understanding of radiated noise from ships. From earlier studies, it is known that the kind of noise generated far away from the ship can vary according to the form of cavitation. Based on this knowledge, the project aims to improve computational and measurement techniques (full scale and model scale) used in the design of a ship. These methods can then be used in ship design to determine measures to reduce the cavitation and machinery noise without reducing the fuel efficiency. Operational measures such as spatial planning can be considered with the sound mapping techniques developed in SONIC. The resulting knowledge will be disseminated in a set of guidelines for underwater radiated noise, developed in close cooperation with the AQUO project. Approach The SONIC project aims at understanding the radiates noise from ships using a combination of model tests, full scale tests and numerical simulations. Validation of the tools will be done which in turn will be utilised as input into the noise mapping tools. Benchmarking the various noise propagation models used to show the appropriateness of each model. With the noise footprint and mapping tool (NFMT) in place, various mitigation measures will be tested and reported. Finally, all results are presented in a radiated noise guidelines document prepared in close cooperation with the AQUO project. Results achieved 1. Noise footprint and mapping tool A shipping noise footprint and mapping tool (NFMT) has been developed, implemented and tested. The tool is tested and compared with the models developed in FP7 project AQUO against a number of benchmark scenario’s. Footprints and noise maps have been generated to compare the effectiveness of different technical and operational measures to reduce the radiated noise. Availability of the AIS information is at this stage the main uncertainty in the NMFT output. 2. Radiated noise measurement: Experimental tools have been developed to improve the measurement of radiated noise at model scale for various model testing facilities. Research has focussed on the unwanted noise sources such as background noise and reflections. Techniques have been investigated to remove these unwanted noise sources. At each facility a suitable scale model test has been done for various test conditions to compare the approaches. 3. Radiated noise calculations Seven different approaches to the computational prediction
of cavitation noise have been applied and developed in the SONIC project. These have each been applied to suitable test cases to allow the results to be compared and validated. 4.Full scale radiated noise measurements Measurements of radiated noise from a test ship a full scale have been carried out using on-board sensors and off-board hydrophone arrays. These data have been used to validate the experimental and computational results. The radiated noise from a variety of larger merchant ships was measured near a shipping lane off the Dutch coast, to populate the SONIC public database of ship radiated noise data.5. Noise mitigation measures The developed numerical and experimental techniques have been applied for a number of cavitation noise mitigation measures such as a wake equalising device, pitch control schemes, air injection and dedicated propeller design. For machinery noise, it has been possible to confirm the correlation between machinery vibrations and noise and that phase information is maintained depending on the mount characteristics. This can be used in future designs. For the spatial and operational planning mitigation measures, it was found that the effectiveness strongly depends on the local traffic characteristics. Further expected results The most important remaining work is the underwater radiated noise guidelines in close cooperation with the AQUO project. The guidelines will include definitions, calculation methods, full and model scale measurement approaches and mitigation measures both technical as operational. Research on the mitigation measures will be finalised as well as the demonstration results of the NMFT and results of the full and model scale tests. Impact
With the SONIC results in hand, ship owners and operators have a set of tools available to reduce the radiated noise of their vessels. Governments can use the guidelines in the development of new procedures with respect to underwater radiated noise. The guidelines will furthermore identify knowledge gaps in the field of underwater radiated noise in general. This information can be used for planning of future research and improvements to gain better knowledge on this topic.
Project № 314394
EU contribution: € 2,999,972
Duration: 36 months
From: October 2012
Coordinator:
Henk Jurrien PRINS
STICHTING MARITIEM RESEARCH INSTITUUT NEDERLAND, NL
27 | P a g e
Objective STAGES was driven by the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) and had three objectives: i) to identify and synthesize the MSFD relevant knowledge generated through EU and nationally-funded research activities and make it widely accessible to policy makers and stakeholders, ii) to identify the needs for further research and iii) to provide concrete and ready-to-use recommendations for an effective EU science policy platform to support the MSFD implementation. Approach STAGES carried out a range of tasks to achieve its objectives. A comprehensive knowledge collection process was performed with the aim of building the inventory of MSFD-relevant research projects and knowledge outputs. Through scientific foresight workshops, MSFD knowledge gaps were identified. Recommendations for a Science Policy Interface were based on a wide stakeholder consultation and assessment of existing structures, processes and global best practices. Results achieved STAGES has delivered a number of outputs which were designed to benefit a broad range of stakeholders and end users and which have been disseminated to reach and inform the full MSFD stakeholder community. The knowledge harnessing exercise turned out in two innovative user friendly tools: the MSFD component of the Marine Knowledge gate (http://www.kg.eurocean.org/) that represents the most extensive look today into MSFD related research and the STAGES clustering tool, a visualization tool that allows the users to search for projects and research surveyed by STAGES by Good Environmental Status (GES) descriptor and marine regions. As a result of a structured MSFD research evaluation and synthesis exercise, State of the Art reports corresponding to the five MSFD themes were produced to provide a comprehensive overview of the current research being undertaken at EU and Member State level which has relevance for the MSFD and its implementation. The consortium developed a web application allowing further updates beyond the project's lifetime. Moreover, a statistical overview of potentially relevant MSFD EU and national research and an insight into country participation in such research, were also delivered together with recommendations on the research harnessing process, as publications.
Through expert foresight and consultation activities, knowledge gaps and needs for further research on monitoring programmes, pressures and their impacts on marine ecosystems and socio-economic analysis under the MSFD were identified, reported and further synthesized in a Science Policy brief. Finally, based on the results above and an extensive stakeholder consultation and assessment of good practices, a proposal has been delivered for an effective MSFD long-term Science Policy Interface Platform including key components and recommendations for stepwise implementation of a fully functional SPI to support MSFD. All of these STAGES MSFD Decision Support Resources are summarized in the ‘MSFD Decision Support Resources’ Fact Sheet accessible through STAGES webpage and can be easily download in a convenient e-package from http://www.stagesproject.eu/stages-msfd-decision-support-resources.Key STAGES outputs and recommendations, have been disseminated and presented to a wide range of policy makers and MSFD stakeholders to enhance MSFD implementation into the future. Further expected results STAGES outputs will be enhanced and capitalized through Horizon 2020 COLUMBUS project that aims to ensure that applicable knowledge generated through EC-funded marine and maritime science and technology research can be transferred effectively to advance the governance of the marine and maritime sectors. Impact Through coordinated foresight and consultation activities and wide interaction with DG Environment and MSFD stakeholders, STAGES produced a number of resources and tools to access MSFD relevant knowledge and demonstrated and recommended ways to improve the structural aspects of harnessing existing knowledge, identifying new knowledge and channels to transfer knowledge from science to inform policy and decision making in support of MSFD implementation.
Project № 308473
EU contribution: € 999,733
Duration: 24 months
From: September 2012
Coordinator:
Marisa FERNÁNDEZ
CENTRO TECNOLOGICO DEL MAR - FUNDACION CETMAR, ES
28 | P a g e
FP7-0CEAN-201312
'The Ocean of Tomorrow 2013' was the third and last cross-thematic call of its kind under FP7. It involved Theme 2 'Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, and Biotechnology' (FAFB), Theme 4 'Nanosciences, Nanotechnologies, Materials and New Production Technologies' (NMP), Theme 5 'Energy', Theme 6 'Environment (including Climate Change)' and Theme 7 'Transport (including Aeronautics)'.The aim of the 'The Ocean of Tomorrow 2013' call was to pool the efforts of stakeholders from a broad range of sectors in order to develop innovative marine technologies for a wide range of applications. The call comprised 4 topics covering three key areas: marine sensing technologies (including biosensors) to monitor the marine environment, innovative antifouling materials for maritime applications and innovative transport and deployment systems for the offshore wind energy sector. As a result, 12 projects had been selected for funding for an EU contribution of almost 71,6M€.
12 http://ec.europa.eu/research/index.cfm?Įg=de&pg=newsaĮert&year=2012&na=na-060612
29 | P a g e
30 | P a g e
Objective The main goals of the BRAAVOO project are: 1) to develop three types of biosensors (nano-immunosensors, bacterial and algal biosensors) that can rapidly target a number of marine priority compounds or compound classes and can measure general toxicity. 2) to integrate them into automated modules, which (i) can be deployed as hand-held single-use instruments, e.g., on ships or by harbor authorities, (ii) will be integrated into a marine data buoy and (iii) an unmanned surveying vessel that will perform real-time on-site sampling, sample analysis and surveying. Approach Nano-immunosensors, bacterial and algal sensors will be optimized for functioning with marine samples, and will be integrated in miniaturized units to allow automated sample flow and optical read-out. Biosensors will be tested for quantitative and qualitative responses in comparison to classical chemical analytics on samples with known composition and on samples coming from (controlled) contaminated sites. Finally, biosensor units will be integrated in the marine vessels for proof-of-concept functioning. Results achieved Immunoassay components were tested for optimal label-free detection of Irgarol, BDE47 flame retardant, domoic acid and okadaic acid, achieving method detection limits of e.g., 0.023 µg per L for Irgarol. Immunoassays are miniaturized for both bimodal waveguide and asymmetric Mach-Zehnder interferometric detection, on platforms with 8 parallel sampling channels including fluidic connections. A coherent set of bacterial bioreporters was produced that shows biouminescence light signals in response to oil-derived components, heavy metals or upon general toxicity, enabling e.g., detection of 0.1 µg per L Hg-ions. Bioreporters are freeze-dried in 10-fold replicate microstructures for single sample usage with an integrated micro-photomultiplier tube detector. Specific marine algae were selected that show distress of photosystem II fluorescence to toxicant exposure (e.g., at 1 nM diuron) and are immobilized in miniaturized flow units with integrated optical systems, extending the sensor's lifetime to a month. Biosensor responses were calibrated under laboratory conditions in five different partner labs and compared to chemical analytical performance in mock contaminated seawater samples. So far, most of them give qualitatively correct results and can be used as first-warning system against a variety of regular marine toxicants,
even without extensive sample pretreatment. This has important advantages for rapid on-site sample analysis. Both the marine buoy and the unmanned vessel were built, with the appropriate energy approvision, soft- and hardware to allow robust functioning. An automated sampling unit has been designed and individual parts of it have been successfully tested, which should allow remote-controlled marine sampling, sample particle filtering and dispatching of samples over the biosensor units in the buoy and vessel. Because of the modularity of the design, both the complete device (buoy or vessel) as well as individual hard- and software parts (e.g., sampling solutions, biosensor units, communication platforms), should be exploitable and interesting for a variety of end-users. Further expected results The biosensor units will be further calibrated with real marine samples taken from a mesocosm scale contamination, and in comparison to regular high-end chemical analytics. The biosensor units will be integrated in the marine vessel and buoy together with the sampling units for testing of their overall performance at the mesocosm facilities, and at a long-term site in a harbour environment. This will demonstrate the proof of concept of automated marine biosensor functioning and will provide a quality assessment of the validity of the biosensors' responses, both individually and in combination. Impact Biosensors as targeted devices for measurement of specific toxicants, rather than a broad coverage of all possible components as used by classical chemical analytics, could provide an important step forward for monitoring campaigns with substantial cost-savings. Automated biosensor units could further drastically improve the efficacy of monitoring recurring toxicants in both sensitive and widely exploited marine areas, by enormously reducing the time needed to obtain measurement data and, consequently, the time needed to take appropriate remediative action.
Project № 614010
EU contribution: € 3,529,127
Duration: 36 months
From: December 2013
Coordinator: Jan Roelof Van Der MEER
UNIVERSITE DE LAUSANNE, CH
31 | P a g e
Objective
EnviGuard is a response to the growing need for accurate
real time monitoring of the seas/ocean and the aquaculture
industries need for a reliable and cost-effective risk
management tool. The implementation of the EnviGuard
system will allow for early detection of harmful algae
blooms (HAB), chemical contaminants, viruses and toxins
thus preventing economic losses. Thus it is in line with
current European policies like the Marine Strategy
Framework Directive and the Water Framework Directive.
Approach
In order to achieve EnviGuard’s goals, the latest findings of
nanotechnologies, genomics, molecular science, bio-
receptors as well as material science and information
technology are combined in the three biosensor modules
and a common interface. Molecular probes, aptamers and
antibodies are being used to detect the desired targets.
The signaling works electrochemically and through optical
label-free responses based on changes in reflectivity of
nanostructured surfaces.
Results achieved
Only one third of the project’s life time has passed by and
all three sensors are still under development. Nevertheless
a central filtration unit has been developed that will provide
the samples for each unit. The basic concept of the
common interface device as well as the web tool to display
the results to the end-users is ready.
Further expected results
First trails for the detection of microalgae, bacteria and
PCBs show promising results in the lab. Further
pathogens (virus, other algae species) and toxins
(Saxitoxin and Okadaic Acid) will be examined in the
near future. At the moment the teams work on an
increased sensitivity of the sensors in order to quantify
the desired targets at very low concentrations. At the
same time the optical and electrical signal reading is
being developed. In year three of the project the
integration will take place and field trials will follow.
Impact
The biosensors to be developed in the project go far beyond the current state-of-the art in terms of accuracy, reliability and simplicity in operation leading to the development of cutting edge sensor technology. They will put the participants at the forefront of quickly developing markets. In addition, arrays of biosensors could become critical to understand and predict the propagation of pathogens and toxins, which could bring valuable information for aquaculture planning, site selection and biosecurity control.
Project № 614057
EU contribution: € 5,523,461
Duration: 60 months
From: December 2013
Coordinator: Björn SUCKOW
VEREIN ZUR FOERDERUNG DES TECHNOLOGIETRANSFERS AN DER HOCHSCHULE BREMERHAVEN E.V., DE
32 | P a g e
Objective The MariaBox project is aiming at the delivery of i) a fully autonomous device, based on the use of biosensors, for the detection of selected pollutants and algal toxins in seawater. The device will be suitable for free-floating devices, buoys, ships, or to be used as a portable instrument. The device’s target autonomy is six months, ii) novel biosensors for monitoring 4 categories of man-made chemicals and 4 categories of microalgae toxins, iii) a software platform and smartphone application to make available all the information collected by the deployed devices. The platform will be compatible with the INSPIRE directive, Copernicus, EuroGOOS initiatives and SeaDataNet as well as the OGC Sensor Observation Service. Approach The MariaBox approach includes: a) the sensing and analysis device, whose main sensing functionality is based on novel biosensors, b) a modular communication system to allow data transmission in various situations, c) a flexible power module for long-term unattended operation, d) a software platform and smartphone application with open data services. Regarding the biosensors development, those are designed in the form of assay discs. Pollutant identification will be done through optical (fluorescence) techniques. Results achieved The MariaBox autonomous device preliminary design has been prepared. The way that the device communicates with the open data platform has also been specified. (Result relevant to: society, industry, environment and policy)The recognition elements (MREs) to be used in the biosensors have also been selected and are currently being produced. These are the key sensing elements of the biosensors, since they will react to the presence of the target pollutants. (Result relevant to: society, industry, environment) The preliminary design of the biosensors has been delivered. Biosensors are designed in the form of discs (like a CD). The incubation of water samples and the analysis process will be implemented by spinning the discs at different speeds. (Result relevant to: industry, environment)The way that MariaBox collected data will be made available has also been specified. The platform will be compatible with the INSPIRE directive, Copernicus and GOOS initiatives and SeaDataNet as well as the OGC Sensor Observation Service (SOS). (Result relevant to: society, industry,
environment and policy)Setup of the www.OceanHub.eu community. The MariaBox project has setup a website to bring together the European marine research community, starting from the 9 OCEAN-2013, topic 1&2 projects. The website is available to anyone interested in joining the community. (Result relevant to: society) Dissemination of results. First MariaBox results have been presented in the CEMEPE 2015 conference. A workshop has also been organised during the IORC 2014 conference, where all 9 active FP7-Ocean 2013 projects (topic 1&2) and the EC were represented. A second inter-project collaboration meeting was held during the ASLO 2015 conference. The MariaBox website and social network accounts are also being used as dissemination channels. (Result relevant to: society, industry). Further expected results The next expected results are the first complete device design drawings and afterwards the first MariaBox device prototype. The first fully functional biosensor prototypes are expected before the end of the 3rd project year. The data platform will also be available by that time. Full system validation in controlled environment will take place next, leading to the delivery of the final system prototypes. The final prototypes will be validated in real-world conditions in 4 pilots. Results dissemination will continue through video material, presentations in conferences and trade fairs, newsletters and social media announcements. Impact The MariaBox autonomous device and system will provide the tools for environmental institutions, agencies and professionals to acquire precise, almost real-time, independent data on the environmental status of marine water quality. By sharing the data in an open way, MariaBox will also facilitate the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). The lower target cost of the MariaBox system, in combination with its 6-month autonomous operation will allow continuous monitoring of the seas for much longer intervals with respect to today’s standards.
Project № 614088
EU contribution: € 5,434,221
Duration: 48 months
From: 1st semester 2014
Coordinator: Panayiotis PHILIMIS
CYRIC CYPRUS RESEARCH AND INNOVATION CENTER LTD, CY
33 | P a g e
Objective The project will improve technology associated to immuno-sensors for marine pollution control (natural or anthropogenic) with a clear repercussion on related industries such as fisheries and aquaculture facilities. Recent technological developments in the miniaturization of electronics and wireless communication technology have led to the emergence of Environmental Sensor Networks Approach The final platform aims for its applications in aquaculture facilities, including the rapid assessment of eight selected contaminants from five groups of compounds that affect aquaculture production (compounds which are toxic, bioaccumulative, endocrine disruptors), but also affect environment and human health. The system will be built to work with one-month autonomy and measuring in real time. In addition, the manufacturing process shall guarantee the cost-effective production of each device, permitting the deployment of multiple devices at a very low cost. SEA-on-a-CHIP will be validated using a step-by-step approach: first under laboratory conditions, second under simulated real conditions, and finally during field experiments in the installation of aquaculture SME facilities.The last test phase will be performed in a way that will include dissemination of the findings with a clear view of commercializing the devices. With a Consortium diverse in expertise and experience, SEA-on-a-CHIP aims to break down interdisciplinary barriers by synthesizing data and knowledge generated across its seven RTD work packages. Results achieved During a first phase of the project, a first prototype able to unattended operation for the detection of two analytes (sulfamide antibiotics and Irgarol) and three days autonomy has been developed and tested. The different parts of this first prototype were tested, first at laboratory level, second as build prototype in simulated real conditions at the ICRA facilities and finally in a field experiment at sea side in the aquaculture facilities of Skaloma in Greece. This first device was able to perform the measurements and send the results to the land receptor. To disseminate the outcomes of the project, tools as website, flyers, posters, e-newsletter, video-conferences and project meetings have been created: A first version of the public website was published at www.sea-on-a-chip.eu in February 2014, and the full website in May
2014. The flyer and the poster created are meant to introduce the project to the general public, while first e-newsletter was launched with the first achievements and meetings information. To ensure the interchange of information between partners, monthly video-conferences and/or meetings have been carried out, with a total of 30 Workpackage video-conferences and 16 meetings in the first 18 months of the project. Moreover, the project participated in International Conferences and Congresses with 44 presentations, as well as in 36 activities of dissemination in mass media (radio, television, newspapers and internet media) and 15 scientific publications. Further expected results The lessons learned from this first prototype are the basis of the second one, which aims to improve the limitations observed in the first prototype with reduced size. In the third phase, the final prototype will include the ability to analyse the eight compounds in duplicates and the final platform will be validated. A long-term case study will be carried out for testing the system, final adjustments, validating the analytical results of the functioning of the platform and dissemination activities. Impact SEA-on-a-CHIP will contribute to increase the applicant SMEs’ market share being attractive to local and national authorities, environmental and food agencies, public/private research institutes and laboratories working in the field of routine environmental monitoring and food safety. The platform will enable an early detection of contamination in aquaculture exploitations and coastal areas, in support of maritime industry, environmental and human health protection, as well as the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. The objectives of SEA-on-a-CHIP can only be successfully achieved with input of a multi-disciplinary consortium with beneficiaries throughout Europe with a high level of expertise.
Project № 614168
EU contribution: € 5,761,459
Duration: 42 months
From: December 2013
Coordinator:
Damia BARCELO
AGENCIA ESTATAL CONSEJO SUPERIOR DE INVESTIGACIONES CIENTIFICAS, ES
34 | P a g e
Objective The increasing demand by citizens and environmental organizations for the protection, preservation and possible restoration of the marine environment has made seawater protection one of the urgent priorities of the EU. SMS develops a series of biosensors that will enable novel real-time in-situ monitoring of priority substances and emerging pollutants in seawater. Targeted compounds are algal toxins, herbicides, pharmaceuticals and synthetic chemicals, while an additional module employs biosensors to detect toxic algal species.
Approach SMS promotes a novel design, makes significant use of nanotechnology for enhancing both the detection limits and sensitivity of biosensors for hazardous compounds found in seawater and proposes ways to make such devices more economical to produce. The result will be a device deployed on the field, with the main box situated on a floating platform and/or buoy that also hosts an analysis module and a sampling module. With the wireless transmission capability for real-time data, as well as remote access to collected data and remote management of biosensors, it will be possible to realize an automated water quality monitoring and alarm system that will be fairly easy to deploy.
Results achieved The first step of the project was to develop the sensors needed to detect the compounds. SMS developed: DNA aptamer-based optical and/or electrochemical biosensors to detect marine toxins with enhanced and signal/noise ratio, obtaining high stability and sensitivity. Optical or electrochemical biosensors for the detection of Tributyltin,and Diuron, and the flame retardant pentaBDPEs; An electrochemical sensor for the detection of sulphonamides; A biosensor to detect toxic algae; A second step, SMS is developing a sampling device to collect seawater samples, to perform pre-treatment processes such as filtration and pre-concentration and to deliver the sample to the sensors and to dispose it afterwards. In addition, SMS developed an analysis module that can host different biosensors for the detection of the selected analyses to perform in situ and real time measurements.
Further expected results In the next months, SMS will develop and build a prototype that will enable collection of data from the sensors, store local data and transfer it to a remote server. At the same time, the biosensors and the modules will be tested and validated. Finally, the device will be deployed in the coastal areas of the Adriatic, Tyrrhenian, and Aegean Seas, and will be tested and validated.
Impact The SMS project consortium brings together key skills from industry and academia. The partners, the technology development and test cases create a multi-sectorial team of experts interacting with end-users and marine water stakeholders, demonstrating that ICT, biotechnology and nanotechnology can increase the potential of biosensors for marine applications. SMS will positively affect socio-economic aspects related to maritime activities and will enable early detection and more effective monitoring of the marine environment. Also, the project will bring a valuable input for the implementation of appropriate management actions relevant in the framework of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). It will provide competitive advantage and leadership to Europe and industry within the fields of biotechnology, sensor development, diagnostic technologies and nanotechnology.
Project № 613844
EU contribution: € 4,144,263
Duration: 45 months
From: December 2013
Coordinator:
Giuseppe PALLESCHI
UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI ROMA TOR VERGATA, IT
35 | P a g e
Objective The objective of the COMMON SENSE project is to develop innovative, next generation sensing technologies which will support the effective implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). By enabling effective monitoring of our waters, these cost-effective sensors will contribute to the protection of the marine environment in Europe. COMMON SENSE is directly responding to current marine monitoring challenges and providing new ways to assess the overall health of marine environments.
Approach COMMON SENSE sensors will increase the availability of standardised data on eutrophication, concentrations of heavy metals, microplastic fraction within marine litter, underwater noise, and other parameters such as temperature and pressure. These sensors will be integrated into different marine platforms in order to reduce significant sampling and monitoring costs. They will be able to share data with existing and new observing systems and will be compatible with the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) and the Global Earth Observing System of Systems (GEOSS).
Results achieved As of summer 2015, the following results have been achieved by the COMMON SENSE project: First prototype of a fully organic temperature sensor for use in the marine environment. In comparison to currently available conventional sensors, the newly developed sensor prototype is extremely sensitive (patented), more highly durable over time, and highly accurate. First prototype of working electrodes for heavy metals detection. They show fast responses, require low maintenance, and can be used for onsite measurements. First prototype of a nanosensor for autonomous pH and pCO2 measurements is currently under validation and optimisation process. These results will be of interest to the following sectors: Environment, Industry. COMMON SENSE applies a Knowledge Management protocol to compile and identify the new knowledge and outcomes generated by the project and to develop targeted knowledge transfer plans for this knowledge so that it can be used for commercial, scientific, conservational and strategic purposes.
The results of this project will be exploited for the benefit of end-users: the marine sensing industry, SMEs (by improving competitiveness and market opportunities), policy and decision makers, and public and private marine monitoring bodies COMMON SENSE has been regularly represented at key scientific conferences and events in order to foster awareness and transfer results for impact, both on a European and global scale. COMMON SENSE is in close contact with the ‘The Ocean of Tomorrow’ projects SCHeMA, NeXOS and SenseOCEAN which have agreed to optimise the returns and opportunities available from their separate but related activities. Substantial efforts have been made to maximise effective collaboration and knowledge sharing as well as mutually beneficial dissemination opportunities. Further expected results Improved data availability on heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, zinc and copper in European sea waters Improved quantification methodologies for the presence of microplastics in European sea waters Improved monitoring and measuring of eutrophication (levels of nitrite, nitrate, phosphate and ammonia) Enhanced understanding of human sources of noise pollution in aquatic environments Creation of a Common Sensor Web Platform to enable a more sophisticated view of the marine environment. Innovative, cost-effective next generation sensing technologies, interoperable with International existing Ocean Observing Systems Impact COMMON SENSE will reduce the cost of the current ocean data collection system and will promote new discoveries leading to a better understanding of the seas. These innovative sensors will represent an improvement in marine data management and will refine our ability to forecast and assess environmental conditions affecting the whole marine ecosystem. This will be beneficial for protecting marine life, mitigating the anthropogenic and climate change impacts and promoting basic marine science research.
Project № 614155
EU contribution: € 4,664,072
Duration: 40 months
From: November 2013
Coordinator:
Emigdia MOROTE
ACONDICIONAMIENTO TARRASENSE ASSOCIACION, ES
Project № 614102
EU contribution: € 5,989,349
Duration: 48 months
From: October 2013
Coordinator: Eric DELORY
PLATAFORMA OCEANICA DE CANARIAS, ES
36 | P a g e
Objective
As stated in the ‘Ostend Declaration’, a major challenge of
the European Union is the development of an integrated
and sustainably funded European Ocean Observing
System. The NeXOS project will improve the temporal and
spatial coverage, resolution and quality of marine
observations through the development of cost-efficient,
innovative and interoperable in-situ sensors.
Approach
The NeXOS project, with its advanced sensor innovations,
is developing, integrated multifunctional sensor systems
deployable in a “plug and play” fashion for mobile and fixed
ocean platforms. Key NeXOS system measurements are
defined to support a range of objectives from more precise
monitoring and modeling of the marine environment to an
improved assessment of fisheries.
Results achieved
Seven new compact, cost-efficient sensors are being
developed using optical, acoustics and other technologies.
In addition, cross-cutting technologies are being developed
to enhance the utility and cost-effectiveness of the sensors
system. These include: 1) the detection at an early stage
of biological growth on sensor surfaces, and associated
prevention, thus decreasing maintenance requirements for
optical sensors; and 2) the development of a smart sensor
interface with Web enabled components, common to all
NeXOS sensors.
To enhance the competitiveness of European SMEs in the
ocean sensor market, sensor requirements and
specifications have been assessed for market penetration
at an early phase of the project.
Further expected results
The sensors and their integration into static and mobile platforms will validate the NeXOS approaches to sensor and data interoperability, quality assurance and reliability requirements. In addition to key demonstrations, the capabilities are designed for user adoption. The work is based on accepted community standards and will be applicable to future sensors.
Impact
Monitoring of European marine waters requires a broad
expertise in terms of science and technical skills. By
combining scientific groups from 6 European countries
in the 4 main marine regions of the EU, NeXOS will
provide broad European added value. Collaboration
between scientists and technical staff result in tangible
developments and longer term approaches for future
sensors development.
Project № 614102
EU contribution: € 5,989,349
Duration: 48 months
From: October 2013
Coordinator: Eric DELORY
PLATAFORMA OCEANICA DE CANARIAS, ES
37 | P a g e
Objective SCHeMA aims at providing an open and modular sensing solution for in situ high resolution mapping of a range of anthropogenic and natural chemical compounds. Key targets are chemicals that may adversely affect marine ecosystems, living resources and ultimately human health. This solution will enhance ocean observing system capabilities to track the sources, behavior and fate of these compounds; rapidly localize problems and alert targeted groups; and finally evaluate and manage their risks and consequences preventing marine economic losses.
Approach
Toward this aim, SCHeMA activities focus on the development of an array of miniature sensor probes taking advantage of various innovative solutions, namely: (bio)polymer-based gel-integrated sensors; solid state ion-selective membrane sensors coupled to an on-line desalination module; mid-infrared optical sensors; optochemical multichannel devices; enOcean technology; ad-hoc ICT wireless networking solution based on international standards and principles. Tests and demonstrations of the SCHeMA integrated system will be performed in Atlantic and Mediterranean coastal areas.
Results achieved
The main achievements of the SCHeMA first 20 month activities are the developments and the successful characterization in laboratory of:
A prototype of an in-line desalination module, based on a microfluidic platform, and solid state ionophore-based ion selective electrodes (ISE) for detection of nitrite, nitrate and carbonate.
Antifouling gel integrated gold nanoparticles microelectrodes arrays allowing direct quantification at natural pH and sub-ppb level of arsenite and mercury.
A prototype of a miniaturized multichannel Trace Metal Sensing Probe allowing the simultaneous quantification of arsenite and cadmium, lead, copper, zinc bioavailable species at sub ppb level.
A prototype of a miniature multi-wavelength unit allowing for the measurement of 8 different algae species.
A laboratory prototype, based on waveguide-assisted evanescent field absorption spectroscopy in the mid-infrared spectral regime, applied for benzene, toluene, p-xylene
analysis at ppm concentration. A SCHeMA network controller allowing the interfacing of the SCHeMA sensor probes as well as other available probes. A web-based system interface, based on international standards (OGC-SWE), for accessing, interacting and configuring the SCHeMA network, controller and probes Dedicated interface, compatible with INSPIRE and GEO/GEOSS standards and principles, for user-friendly data discovery, access and download as well as interoperability with other projects. Dissemination activities: 6 press releases; 10 published peer reviewed papers; 16 oral talks and 31 posters presented at 21 conferences/meetings; participation to 2 business exhibitions; and organization of two sessions on the development of innovative sensors for in situ monitoring of aquatic systems as part of the international conferences: ASLO 2015; IEEBS 2015.
Further expected results
The expected project outcome is three-fold: (1) product-based – a suite of powerful field-validated submersible chemical sensor probes and a smart multi-sensor probe Hardware/Software interface platform ready for post-industrial production; (2) applied – water quality assessment of various marine ecosystems and identification of the critical parameters considered relevant for successful management of water quality; (3) scientific – a better understanding of the bio-geochemical processes occurring in selected EU coastal areas; this is critical to i) predict the impact of land-based pollution on water quality of vulnerable coastal ecosystems, and ii) develop knowledge-based policies for the protection and long-term sustainable management of the marine environment.
Impact
SCHeMA will contribute to cutting-edge marine technology within a range of European scientific and technological sectors. It will support policies of several EU directives contributing to insure sustainable management of marine economy and population wellbeing and health. Dissemination activities and training of students and young researchers, the scientists of tomorrow, will contribute to further promote the competitive expertise of Europe in the field of marine-sciences.
Project № 614002
EU contribution: € 5,200,489
Duration: 48 months
From: October 2013
Coordinator: Marylou TERCIER WAEBER
UNIVERSITE DE GENEVE, CH
38 | P a g e
Objective
The marine environment plays an essential role in the Earth’s climate, provides resources, recreational opportunities and is a vital transportation route. However, it remains poorly understood in terms of chemical and physical parameters. SenseOCEAN will develop small low-cost, but rugged and highly precise and accurate sensors to enable a greater understanding of these parameters (both temporally and spatially) and therefore, allow better monitoring of the marine system.
Approach
Through the development of underpinning technologies and analytical approaches we will develop a number of multifunctional sensors to address key gaps in our ability to monitor the environment. This development of common core systems will lead to economies of scale in sensor manufacturing and allow full interoperability across a number of monitoring platforms. The project will produce a number of multifunctional sensor packages thoroughly tested and deployed in the environment.
Results achieved
At the mid-point of SenseOCEAN we have defined our underpinning technology, allowing us to combine a number of different sensors together and get them to communicate with each other and send their important results to the to the outside world. We are on track to produce one low-cost sensor able to measure both pollutants and phytoplankton in the marine environment. This will allow us to measure both sewage and harmful algal blooms. We have produced a sensor to measure dissolved silicate, an important nutrient for phytoplankton, that is able to be deployed over 2 km deep in the ocean. We are currently awaiting a patent on this new development, after which it will be introduced onto the sensor market. We have produced a highly sensitive optical based sensor for the measurement of carbon dioxide, an important greenhouse gas. This allows us to measure how much carbon is taken up or released by the ocean. We have a dual oxygen-temperature sensor to be deployed with the sensors above for CO2. As part of a climate monitoring package, this will be a major step forward for ocean observing. We have identified cost effective ways of manufacturing our sensors to allow mass production, long-term deployment and use in a wide range of environments. We have identified cost effective ways of manufacturing our
sensors to allow mass production, long-term deployment and use in a wide range of environments. This will result in a strengthening of European sensor manufacturing, and our 5 SME partners will lead in the effort to produce sensors that are commercially important. We will be deploying our sensors in marine systems around the world in the next 12-24 months - from the Arctic to the upwelling areas off South America and from coastal to open ocean environments. This demonstration work will show that our sensors are robust and useful for a number of users. We will be using the sensors on ships, deep-sea observatories, Remote Observing Vehicles, gliders and buoy and float systems. Linking to the H2020 project AtlantOS, we will ensure that our research efforts are in the direction that the community of observing scientists require. Working closely, sharing knowledge and technology developments, with other projects funded under the Oceans of Tomorrow call allows us to combine efforts and knowledge to ensure a more efficient use of resources. In addition, we are promoting the project through a number of national and international outreach efforts. Recent highlights include a combined session at the ASLO meeting in Spring 2015 and our presence at trade fairs such as Ocean Business 2105. These activities highlight our developments to scientists, engineers, and the general public.
Further expected results
We will produce a number of sensor systems that will allow us to measure and monitor the environment to help understand how the climate is changing due to global warming. Another sensor system will allow us to investigate how our inputs of sewage and pollution can impact us through contaminating our bathing waters and seafood.
Impact
The developments in SenseOCEAN will lead to a better understanding of our world and allow us to ensure we can minimise the impacts of men's activities. Through SenseOCEAN we will set the standards for how sensors communicate with each other, the platforms they are on, and the outside world. Finally SenseOCEAN will place Europe and our SME partners at the forefront of the global sensor technology market.
Project № 614141
EU contribution: € 5,924,945
Duration: 48 months
From: October 2013
Coordinator:
Douglas CONNELLY
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH COUNCIL, UK
39 | P a g e
Objective
The BYEFOULING project addresses high volume production of low toxic and environmentally friendly antifouling coatings for mobile and stationary maritime applications. The technology will fulfil the coating requirements as a result of the incorporation of novel antifouling agents and a new set of binders into coating formulations for maritime transportation and fishing vessels, floating devices and aquaculture. The main goal of BYEFOULING is to design, develop and upscale antifouling coatings with enhanced performance compared to current available products.
Approach
The approach in BYEFOULING is to tackle the different stages of the biofouling process using innovative antifouling agents covering surface-structured materials, protein adsorption inhibitors, quorum sensing inhibitors (QSI), natural biocides and microorganisms with antifouling properties. Encapsulation of the innovative compounds in smart nanostructured materials will be implemented to optimize coating performance and cost all along their life cycle. A proof-of-concept for the most promising candidates will be developed and demonstrators will be produced and tested on fields.
Results achieved
In the field of biomimetic surface composition, active compounds having potential antifouling properties have been extracted from different marine organisms. Two types of protein adsorption inhibitors are being studied: peptide-like and poly-zwitterionic materials. Different Quorum Sensing inhibitor compounds/extracts have been tested and a large number of novel marine bacteria with wide-spectrum enzymatic activity have been identified. A variety of nanostructured inorganic, organic and hybrid materials that can be used as reservoirs for the encapsulation of active compounds and fillers have been synthesized and incorporated into different coating formulations. Protocols have been written for laboratory tests on anti-microfouling efficacy, anti-macrofouling efficacy, mesocosm efficacy tests, field efficacy tests of the antifouling paint prototypes and ecotoxicity tests.
The first field tests have been launched with the most promising BYEFOULING systems developed so far. Activities related to the development of the mathematical models for drag reduction prediction and activities related to life cycle assessment were performed. Models for studying self-polishing paints have been used, flow of fluids has been simulated and experimental designs studied to obtain relevant experimental data. Several dissemination activities have been realised, including the organization of a training course in the paint company JOTUN, short visits and specific tools (public website and newsletters) for dissemination. The first BYEFOULING workshop was organised by the University of Santiago de Compostela (Spain) in collaboration with the Tel Aviv University.
Further expected results
In the ship transport sector, BYEFOULING will offer more efficient and less toxic antifouling coatings, the operation and lifecycle costs will be significantly reduced, thereby increasing the efficiency and competitiveness of the ship transport industry. Furthermore, the project will contribute to reduce the negative impacts on the marine environment and CO2, NOx and SOx emissions. In the aquaculture sector, BYEFOULING products will improve the performance of marine operations, with better growth rates, improve water quality and provide a better control of disease vectors, reduce costs associated with copper waste disposal, enable lighter structures and improve resistance towards extreme weather and enhance the viability towards more stringent regulations on the use of biocides.
Impact
The BYEFOULING project will provide a unique platform of solutions to the marine fouling problem through close collaboration between experts on fundamental research, applied technology, manufactures, and final users across Europe. At the same time the network of knowledge that will be strengthened through the project will create a solid basis for future collaboration.
Project № 612717
EU contribution: € 7,447,584
Duration: 48 months
From: December 2013
Coordinator: Christian SIMON
STIFTELSEN SINTEF, NO
40 | P a g e
Objective
The SEAFRONT project will deliver i) cost-effective coatings solutions with reduced environmental footprint as determined by comparative life cycle and eco-efficiency assessment, ii) 50% improvement in biofouling deterrence and/or biofouling release measured using newly developed test methodologies, iii) hydrodynamic drag reduction resulting in a consequent 5% improvement in operating efficiency of vessels, all compared to the latest state-of-the-art commercial coatings.
Approach
With a multidisciplinary consortium, SEAFRONT will consider three different technology concepts and combinations for the development of environmentally benign fouling control coatings. Studies aimed at developing an enhanced mechanistic/fundamental understanding of the relationships between coating properties and hydrodynamic drag, biofouling settlement, biofouling release and biocorrosion along with establishment of new test methodologies will be conducted in separate research work packages.
Results achieved
The SEAFRONT project is currently running for 1.5 years and still has 2.5 years to go. First promising results have been produced.
Different biological assay lab tests have been developed and standardised. These tests have been applied to all commercial benchmark fouling release and fouling deterrence coatings used in the project. A comprehensive dataset on biofouling performance of benchmark coatings forms the base against which novel fouling control technologies will be benchmarked. A paper about the comprehensive dataset will soon be submitted by Newcastle University.
Lab experiments demonstrated at least 5% reduction of
hydrodynamic drag for a novel fouling control technology developed in SEAFRONT. AkzoNobel currently investigates scaling up of the technology for exploitation and commercialisation.
Further expected results
The SEAFRONT project will develop novel fouling control technologies which will outperform commercial fouling release and fouling deterrence coatings on environmental, biofouling, and hydrodynamic performance.
Impact
Marine biofouling represents the unwanted colonization of marine organisms on surfaces immersed in seawater. It has a huge economic and environmental impact in terms of maintenance requirements for marine structures, increased vessel fuel consumption, operating costs, greenhouse gas emissions and spread of non-indigenous species. Conserving the marine ecosystem and reducing greenhouse gas emissions requires the development and utilization of innovative and environmentally benign fouling control coatings.
Project № 614034
EU contribution: € 7,995,161
Duration: 48 months
From: January 2014
Coordinator: John Van HAARE
STICHTING DUTCH POLYMER INSTITUTE, NL
41 | P a g e
Objective
LEANWIND aims to address industry challenges related to delivering cost-effective installation, O&M and decommissioning of large-scale offshore wind farms, in addition to considering the associated transport, logistics and equipment needs. By identifying savings across the supply chain, the project aims to help make offshore wind competitive with other energy sources, particularly as farms move further offshore to deeper waters. It will thereby contribute to achieving 2020 targets for wind energy.
Approach
The LEANWIND consortium will apply “lean” principles to the offshore wind industry to streamline processes and find cost and time efficiencies, helping bridge the gap between current costs and industry requirements. Technologies, tools and strategies will be developed and validated using real-life projects and case studies. Project innovations will then be integrated and evaluated to assess the full wind farm implications and provide recommendations for optimal, cost-effective wind farm systems.
Results achieved
Keystone reports defining the current state of the art and main industry challenges in relation to construction, deployment and installation; vessels and equipment; O&M strategies; and logistics. Generic 8MW turbine specifications produced for internal project use to facilitate vessel and substructure design. Turbine substructures identified for further assessment to determine potential improvements in design and installation. Findings on “Design drivers for concrete gravity foundations” disseminated at EWEA Offshore, Copenhagen, 2015. New floating substructure has been designed by Iberdrola. Installation and service vessel design requirements established to optimise operational capabilities and performance. Remote presence prototype for O&M developed by NAAS. Designed to enable monitoring a turbine without traveling to the farm, currently being tested at a coastal site. Geographic Information System (GIS) tool developed providing a comprehensive database of manufacturing facilities, transportation links and port locations across Europe. To be integrated with a supply chain logistics model to facilitate project work in finding ways to optimise logistics across a wind farm lifecycle.
A Geographic
Analysis of current offshore wind supply chain management strategies and the methods in which risk is shared. Produced recommendations for innovative business models to cope with increasing complexity of current and future projects. Ports suitability assessment for offshore wind development to be made
Further expected results Novel adaptations for fixed and floating substructures and a substructure selection tool to minimise costs and installation time. Streamlining the deployment and installation of large-scale turbines and both fixed and floating substructures with improved installation processes. A decision-making model for port layout/configuration to improve planning of on-land logistics. A full supply chain logistics model integrated with the GIS tool to increase efficiency and reduce bottlenecks with individual modules applicable to port logistics, transport, vessel chartering etc. Holistic economics model, including CAPEX, business models, OPEX and life-cycle assessment to assess the benefits of project innovations. Recommendations for optimised O&M strategies and condition monitoring software to reduce the need for human intervention and maintenance costs. New and optimised installation and service vessel designs. Vessel simulation technologies to replicate deployment activities for mitigating the risks associated with new deployment strategies. Identifying industry specific safety and training procedures for project innovations. Evaluating the benefits of optimised procedures and technical solutions.
Impact By identifying ways to improve efficiency and reduce costs, LEANWIND will help make the industry cost competitive, enhancing Europe’s energy security and leadership in the sector. The project will produce new innovative tools and technologies and contribute to developing niche markets, particularly in relation to wind farm installation and servicing vessels. It is expected to boost market grow, increase gross domestic product, promote-job-creation.
Project № 614020
EU contribution: € 9,986,231
Duration: 48 months
From: December 2013
Coordinator:
Jimmy MURPHY
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE CORK, NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF IRELAND, IE
42 | P a g e
The Ocean of Tomorrow
Projects (2010-2013)
What results so far for healthy and productive seas and oceans?