LIFE SCIENCES AND BIOTECHNOLOGY

Recent advances of Life Sciences and Biotechnology on Smart Urban Coastal Sustainability (SmUCS), with special focus (but not limited to) on novel biotechnological applications based on aquatic and coastal environments, on recent advances in aquaculture, fish nutrition and welfare, on biology, genetics, physiology and immunology of aquatic and coastal species and on big data processing.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES AND BIODIVERSITY

The connectivity between terrestrial and marine environments through the riverine and estuarine continuums is a subject of study ranging from ecology to economy. Understanding the impact of land use and climate on water quality and the services provided by aquatic ecosystems is a key aspect of this research, as it reflects the intricate relationships between human activities and the natural environment. The restoration of aquatic and wetland ecosystems along these continuums is the key activity aiming to protect and improve the ecosystem services and societal goods and benefits, while the nature-based solutions are the ultimate tools to achieve these goals.

COASTAL ENGINEERING

The engineering topics related to water and aquatic and coastal ecosystems concerned in the framework of Coastal Engineering Institute are Coastal Geomorphology, Coastal Planning and Infrastructure, Marine and Maritime Engineering, Environmental Engineering and Pollution, Water Resources & Management for urban resilience, Natural Hazards (Storms, Floods etc.) and Water – Energy Nexus.

SOCIAL CULTURE AND HUMAN SCIENCES

Connections between water and society. Focus on linking scientific knowledge with social, cultural, and ethical insights, to deeper understand the complexity and significance of life in even the smallest water habitats. Holistic understanding of the ecological, social, cultural, and ethical dimensions of water microcosm.

The multifaceted role of water in education. The importance of provision, accessibility and quality to the health, attendance and overall well-being of students and teachers, to global perspectives and to sustainable practices.

Holistic approaches towards effective management of natural water resources by balancing economic development, tourism, and cultural heritage preservation to achieve the protection of water and of coastal invaluable ecosystems. Decision-making processes towards environmental sustainability, social equity and economic viability.