MERP at COP22

Published: 02 February 2017

Scientists in MERP are researching the sources, fates and stores of primary production in coastal sediment, and how it is buried and locked away in the sediment or quickly turned over to be released back into the water column. In related work drivers exacerbated by climate change and local human activities that affect these processes (such as coastal low oxygen conditions and ocean acidification) have also been explored. The new information gathered by MERP is used to improve representation of coastal sediments and trophic pathways in ecosystem models, which in turn enhance our ability to project changes in various ecosystem services such as waste remediation and food production.

Dr Ana Queiros from Plymouth Marine Laboratory (pictured right) went to COPP22 (Marrakech, November 2016) to disseminate information about MERP and the role of the marine ecosystem in mitigating climate impacts through locking away carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. She gave presentations, spoke with national and international media outlets and had a strong twitter presence throughout COPP22 promoting the work she has been doing through the Marine Ecosystem Research Programme.

Dr Queiros commented: "Attending COP was an excellent opportunity to engage on a global stage where policy, industry, NGOs, research and civil society come together to discuss climate mitigation, and to raise awareness and support for the role of the ocean in it. Climate change impacts the natural ocean-based resources and services like fisheries and carbon uptake, for which cutting-edge forecasting and management tools are being developed in MERP. It was an excellent opportunity to communicate NERC research to these individuals and organisations, and we had great uptake. I am grateful for having had the support to undertake this activity for MERP."

Related information

Marine Ecosystems Research Programme (MERP) at the UNFCCC COP22 Report.