According to the RBI, scientists from six Mediterranean countries are taking part in the project, which aims to assess how different human and climate-related pressures overlap and what their combined impact means for marine habitats and the organisms that live in them. They are expected to develop science-based protection and restoration measures tailored to the specific conditions of each area.
"Human activity affects marine ecosystems in many ways, and that impact is often harmful. But climate change, noise, light pollution, chemical contaminants, invasive species and marine litter do not act in isolation. Marine organisms are exposed to multiple pressures at the same time, and we need to better understand their combined effects," said project researcher Mia Knjaz of the RBI's Centre for Marine Research.
Field measurements and sample analysis
As part of the project, scientists measure seawater temperature, salinity and pH. They analyse microplastics in seawater, sediment and on beaches, monitor plant and animal species, particularly invasive species, and record underwater noise, light pollution and chemical contaminants.
By combining these data, they aim to identify which pressures occur together, how severe they are and how their cumulative impact affects individual habitats.
Biologists, chemists, divers and other specialists travel by research vessel to selected sites, where they collect seawater and sediment samples and record the organisms living there. Back on shore, the samples are analysed in the laboratory. Depending on the type of sample and measurement, initial results can take several days or weeks.
"Fieldwork is only the first step. It is followed by hours in the laboratory, data analysis, computer work and a lot of thinking. Only by bringing all the data together can we understand what is really happening in the sea," Knjaz said.
Restoration of seagrass meadows
One nature-based solution to different environmental pressures is the restoration of seagrass meadows, which can help stabilise the seabed, reduce wave action, boost biodiversity and store carbon.
"Restoring seagrass meadows does not address just one problem. It can restore lost habitats for native species, increase biodiversity, stabilise the seabed and help mitigate climate change. Such measures benefit both nature and people while fitting naturally into the ecosystem," Knjaz said.
MIRAMAR brings together eight partners from six Mediterranean countries.
The project is coordinated by the University of Siena's Plastic Busters team.
Alongside the Ruđer Bošković Institute, partners include Greece's Mediterranean Information Office for Environment, Culture and Sustainable Development, the Spanish National Research Council and Institute of Oceanography, the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Italy's Anton Dohrn Zoological Station, Albania's Ministry of Tourism and Environment, and France's Corsican Environment Office.
Research is being conducted at nine sites across the Mediterranean, including Istria's west coast. The project began in April 2025 and will run until the end of 2027.