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Project Code [GOIPD/2019/23]
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Project title
Moving Forward with the Ecosystem Approach: Integrating the Sustainable Management of Freshwater and Ocean Ecosystems
Primary Funding Agency
Irish Research Council
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
University College Cork (UCC)
Project Abstract
This research explores how an ecosystem approach addresses the competition, interdependencies and tensions across freshwater and oceanrelated sectors and strengthens synergies between these legal regimes. For example, protecting the habitats of migratory species which rely on a network of connected freshwater and marine areas whilst considering competing demands for human uses, like renewable energy or disaster risk reduction, in a changing global climate. Please provide details of your proposed research, to include , aims, objectives and central research questions: A fair and resilient legal architecture to integrate, sustainably manage and protect the world�s fragile freshwater and ocean ecosystems is one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Freshwater ecosystems are under increasing stress from cumulative land-use change, pollution, climateinduced flooding or drought and the insatiable demand for water for the production of food, energy and other industrial purposes. The impacts of this degradation flow downstream impacting coastal and marine ecosystems. Alteration of waterways for irrigation, hydropower and flood protection affects biodiversity via disruption of the natural flow regime and blocks species migration routes from river to sea. 70% of marine plastic, emanates from land-based activities (UNEP) and is often transported through watercourses before reaching the ocean. These plastics take 450 years to biodegrade, negatively impacting 700 marine species, affecting human nutrition worldwide, and undermining the role of the ocean in the water and carbon cycles. The interaction of cumulative pressures on ocean resources, including overexploitation, pollution and climate change impacts, are reaching a potential tipping point for ocean health (World Ocean Assessment, 2016).
Grant Approved
�91,910.00
Research Theme
Climate Solutions, Transition Management and Opportunities
Initial Projected Completion Date
30/09/2021