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Project title

Quantification, characterisation,source and fate of past&present carbon storage in coastaloffshore sediments for effective marine management

Primary Funding Agency

Marine Institute

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

Environmental Protection Agency

Lead Organisation

University College Dublin (UCD)

Lead Applicant

Mark Coughlan

Project Abstract

Ireland’s expansive marine resource has the potential to sequester and store significant amounts of carbon in seafloor sediments and the habitats they support. However, there is a paucity of data and information on the past and present stock of carbon in these environments. Moreover, Ireland’s seabed is coming under increased pressure through anthropogenic impacts, such as the development of offshore renewable energy, trawling and dredging, in addition to climate change effects. To fully understand, and effectively manage, the seabed in terms of maximising this Blue Carbon potential requires a thorough understanding of carbon cycling in the marine environment over time, physical processes at the seafloor and high-quality spatial mapping. The Quest Project Team comprises experienced and skilled researchers in these areas who will conduct a multidisciplinary programme of research to qualify and quantify stocks of carbon in Irish marine sediments, examine and characterise threats to Blue Carbon in these settings and support the development of long-term management strategies. This programme will comprise spatial predictive modelling along with offshore surveying and sampling, laboratory analysis and hydrodynamic modelling to deliver comprehensive geochemical, geological, geotechnical, environmental and morphodynamic assessments of Blue Carbon ‘hotspots’ in the Irish offshore, as identified in the National Marine Planning Framework. The outcomes of the Quest Project will form critical baseline data and the basis for expert advice to help inform evidence-based policy with regard to effective management strategies for the sustainable use and protection of Blue Carbon resources in Ireland. This will include supporting the designation of Marine Protected Areas and facilitate the delivery of the Government’s Climate Action Plan. The Quest Project also intends to engage with stakeholders and the public to achieve a better understanding of Blue Carbon across society, and to raise the visibility of such research at a national and EU level.

Grant Approved

�158,658.00

Research Hub

Climate Change

Research Theme

n/a

Start Date

01/06/2022

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/06/2027