Waterford shores contribute to climate change
WATERFORD has contributed it’s waters in an effort to understand conditions and growing techniques of shellfish, in an attempt to tackle climate change.
Researchers from South East Technological University (SETU) are working with shellfish farmers along the south coast of Ireland to help them adapt and respond to climate change using cutting-edge technologies.
The STREAM (Sensor Technologies for Remote Aquatic Environmental Monitoring) project is helping to address climate change challenges by collecting data to protect our coastal environments.
As part of the project, researchers have deployed sensors in Bannow Bay and Dungarvan in Waterford to help better understand growing conditions and track water quality.
These sensors aim to improve management techniques, and increase the quality and growth of oysters and mussels. These two Waterford bays, in particular, are significant contributors to the country’s overall shellfish production.
STREAM is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Ireland Wales Cooperation programme and has been allocated €4.3 million over five years.
“The STREAM project is a valuable contribution to understanding climate change and its impacts on the marine environment,” says Dr Joseph O’Mahony, STREAM Principal Investigator.
“The project's data and tools will be essential for protecting coastal communities and developing strategies to adapt to climate change.”