How Croatian scientists are fighting to protect the Adriatic

Scientists working to protect the Adriatic

ZAGREB, 11 June (Hina) – Researchers at the Ruđer Bošković Institute (IRB) have for decades been at the forefront of efforts to protect the Adriatic Sea, working on a wide range of projects related to climate change, testing the potential of increasing seawater alkalinity, exploring microalgae, and studying invasive species.

Marking World Oceans Day on Sunday, the IRB said in a statement that these efforts involve scientists from its Marine and Environmental Research Division in Zagreb, the Martinska research station near Šibenik, and the Centre for Marine Research in Rovinj.

Their work includes monitoring microorganisms, tsunamis, chemical composition of seawater and changes in biodiversity.

One such initiative is the GLOMETS project, led by Dr Ivica Vilibić, which investigates meteotsunamis. “These are phenomena not caused by ground tremors, but by changes in the atmosphere. Without proper monitoring and warning systems, they can be extremely dangerous,” Vilibić warned.

In Martinska, near Šibenik, the team led by Dr Jelena Godrijan is taking part in the international project OAEPIIP, which tests ways to increase seawater alkalinity to allow the sea to absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

“By adding alkaline substances, we mimic the natural process of rock weathering, but we must ensure this does not harm marine life,” Godrijan explained.

In Rovinj, scientists are working to restore populations of brown algae from the order Fucales, which have all but disappeared due to pollution and rising sea temperatures.

“Our goal is to bring the algae back not only to their natural habitats, but also to areas visibly affected by human activity,” the Centre for Marine Research stated.

The spread of invasive species, such as the blue crab, is another research priority. Through the ALIENA project, scientists are developing early warning systems in cooperation with neighbouring countries.

“We cannot protect the sea without regional cooperation. Invasive species do not stop at national borders,” the researchers noted.

As part of the BRIGANTINE project, an autonomous, sensor-equipped vessel is being developed to collect marine data without a crew.

“Think of it as a mini-oceanographer, tirelessly navigating the sea without consuming fuel or resources. That’s the future of marine monitoring,” said Dr Mirta Smodlaka Tanković, the project coordinator.

In laboratory settings, scientists are also examining the potential of microalgae in treating industrial wastewater. “Algae are our silent allies – invisible to the eye, but powerful in their ability to purify and transform,” said Maria Blažina.

“On World Oceans Day, perhaps it’s time to look beyond the waves and beach postcards and focus on what’s happening beneath the surface, and to thank those who listen to the sea every day, study it and learn how to protect it,” the scientists at the IRB concluded.