Welcome to the IMBeR's Newsletter.

Continuing our annual tradition during graduation season, this special edition provides a review and updates on the capacity development programs conducted by the International Project Office from August 2024 to July 2025.

International Training Workshop

on the Carbon Sequestration Estimate and Capacity Building of Coastal Blue Carbon Ecosystems in Maritime Silk Road Countries (CBC-MSR)

The International Training Workshop on the Carbon Sequestration Estimate and Capacity Building of Coastal Blue Carbon Ecosystems in Maritime Silk Road Countries (CBC-MSR) was successfully held on Chongming Island, Shanghai, from September 7 to 21, 2024. CBC-MSR was sponsored by the Department of International Cooperation, Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China, and organized by the State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research (SKLEC) at East China Normal University. CBC-MSR gathered 27 participants from 13 countries across Africa, Latin America, South and Southeast Asia, representing key nodes of the Maritime Silk Road.

This intensive two-week CBC-MSR aimed to build technical capacity in blue carbon assessment, restoration, and policy integration, with a focus on tidal wetlands as critical carbon sinks. Through lectures, hands-on fieldwork, lab-based training, and site visits, participants explored carbon flux dynamics, nature-based solutions, and emerging strategies for blue carbon trading and reporting.

The workshop fostered an inclusive and interdisciplinary learning environment and facilitated information exchange among researchers, policy practitioners, and government stakeholders. CBC-MSR concluded its program by listening to and discussing participants’ reports. China’s Ministry of Science and Technology awarded participants with the CBC-MSR training completion certificate.

Watch the edited video clips from the training on YouTube and Youku.

Participant Voices: One Year Later

From Zanzibar to Mexico, from mangrove roots to satellite scans, this workshop wasn't the end—it was ignition. The ripples now move across science, communities, and coastlines.

Research Sparked by the Workshop

Published Works:

Several participants have turned workshop insights into peer-reviewed publications.

Giovanni Avila-Flores (Autonomous University of Baja California Sur) “I carried out sediment sampling for blue carbon estimation using workshop methodologies.” Ávila-Flores, G., Paredes-Lozano, L., Hernandez-Hernandez, E. and Hernández-Morales, P., 2025. A vision for collaboration: preserving ecosystem services through blue carbon research between Mexico and China, a case study in La Ribera, Baja California Sur. Anthropocene Coasts, 8(1), pp.1-4.https://doi.org/10.1007/s44218-025-00077-x

Yuda Chen (East China Normal University) Chen, Y., Liu, J., Cukrov, N., Sun, S., Chen, X., Yu, X., Zhu, X., Zhang, F. and Du, J., 2025. Groundwater carbon exports dominate dissolved carbon budgets in a seagrass meadow karstic bay (Adriatic Sea, Croatia). Journal of Hydrology, p.133391. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhydrol.2025.133391

Samwel Limbu (University of Dar es Salaam) Koka, E.G., Masao, C.A., Limbu, S.M., Kilawe, C.J., Norbert, J., Pauline, N.M., Perfect, J. and Mabhuye, E.B., 2025. A systematic review on distribution, sources and impacts of heavy metals in mangrove ecosystems. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 213, p.117666. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.117666

Conference Presentations:

Participants shared their findings at international forums:

Giovanni Avila-Flores (Autonomous University of Baja California Sur) VII Mexican Mangrove Congress | June 24, 2025 Evaluation of Ecosystem Services of the Riparian Vegetation of the Eureka Stream, Baja California Sur, Mexico

Yuda Chen (East China Normal University) IMBeR Future Oceans 3 Conference | May 13–16, 2025 Revealing the Superiority of Dissolved Organic Carbon Fluxes from Submarine Groundwater Discharge in Karst Seagrass Beds, Morinje Lagoon, Croatia

Shiqing Sun (East China Normal University) IMBeR Future Oceans 3 Conference | May 13–16, 2025 Source and Sequestration of Sediment Organic Carbon in a Growing Seagrass Meadow in Novigrad Bay, Split, Croatia

Alexander Khan (Universitas Padjadjaran) IOC/OTGA RTC China Training Course | May 20–29, 2025 Topic:Sea Level Rise and Its Impact on Coastal Zones Under Climate Change

New Collaborations Born

Seven participants launched or joined collaborative projects:

Livinus Renatus (Dar es Salaam City Council): Represented Tanzania in a workshop of Ocean Leaders, highlighting the challenges and opportunities faced by early-career researchers from Africa working on blue carbon ecosystems.

Samwel Limbu (University of Dar es Salaam): Participated in joint sample analysis and co-authored research papers with fellow workshop participants.

Alexander Khan (Universitas Padjadjaran): Initiated a collaborative book project with a Malaysian counterpart, focusing on coastal carbon topics.

Juma Selemani (Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology): Planning a joint research initiative in marine biogeochemistry with fellow participants.

Giovanni Avila-Flores (Autonomous University of Baja California Sur): Engaged in regional sediment studies in collaboration with multiple participants from the training.

Practical Applications in Field & Lab

Participants actively integrated techniques and insights from the workshop into their ongoing research and academic work:

Yuda Chen (East China Normal University): Applied workshop-acquired methods for sediment collection, processing, and experimental analysis in his own field studies. He also implemented submarine groundwater sampling techniques, enhancing the scope and precision of his carbon flux measurements.

Shiqing Sun (East China Normal University): Utilized carbon storage estimation protocols introduced during the workshop to assess sedimentary carbon in seagrass ecosystems.

Juma Selemani (Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology): Conducted coastal water sampling using field methodologies discussed during the training, advancing baseline data collection for blue carbon analysis.

Samwel Limbu (University of Dar es Salaam): Incorporated workshop methods into sample analysis and scientific writing, contributing to peer-reviewed publications on blue carbon systems.

Insights from additional participants: “I used the skills and knowledge gained to re-design my study framework, particularly during field planning.” “The training directly influenced my research design for estimating carbon sequestration using Pb-210 dating.” “I consulted your expertise to validate my methodological approach, which helped shape my research direction.”

Educators in Action

Participants have taken their workshop experience beyond the classroom, engaging in training, outreach, and capacity-building efforts across research institutions and coastal communities:

Aysun Ugur Gorgun (Ege University Institute of Nuclear Sciences): Organized a workshop and field training session titled “Use of Radionuclides in Blue Carbon Ecosystems” at Ege University Institute of Nuclear Sciences, held on June 30, 2025. The event focused on radiometric techniques introduced during the workshop.

Giovanni Avila-Flores (Autonomous University of Baja California Sur): Delivered a lecture for students in the Alternative Tourism Program at his university titled “Fauna and Ecosystem Services in Salt Marshes: Evidence from La Ribera, B.C.S.”, which included a dedicated section on blue carbon ecosystems.

Livinus Renatus (Dar es Salaam City Council): Engaged local coastal communities in Tanzania through two separate projects on mangrove restoration, translating technical knowledge into grassroots ecological action.

Juma Selemani (Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology): Leading the development of a collaborative research proposal on the mangrove ecosystems along the Indian Ocean coast, building on regional insights and interdisciplinary approaches inspired by the workshop.

Samwel Limbu (University of Dar es Salaam): Conducted training sessions for students at the University of Dar es Salaam, incorporating workshop methodologies into classroom and field-based instruction.

Transformative Impact on Careers

Each participant shared how the workshop altered their research trajectory or deepened professional engagement:

“I was able to gain knowledge that helped me redesign my fieldwork. I am now more eager than ever to improve my skills in blue carbon research — especially around seagrass meadows in Pemba, which offer immense potential for new discoveries.”

“While an earlier online course sparked my interest in blue carbon, this workshop gave me practical insights into carbon assessment and ecosystem management. It deepened my understanding and helped clarify my long-term vision for sustainable research in this space.”

“As a fisheries officer, I’ve long worked to protect marine ecosystems, but the workshop helped me connect with leading scientists, who now serve as mentors. I feel better equipped to explain the value of blue carbon ecosystems to local communities, especially when it comes to sustainable use.”

“The workshop influenced my academic direction so much that I am now supervising a PhD student working on mangroves and their role in the regional carbon budget.”

“It gave me more than just technical knowledge — it gave me confidence. I had been unsure how to enter this field, but after the workshop, I started my first project and initiated collaborations with fellow participants.”

“The workshop sensitized me to explore blue carbon science under the lens of climate change, and it helped me recognize my own region’s untapped potential for research.”

“This international symposium helped me systematically connect fragmented knowledge — from carbon sink mechanisms to policy frameworks and remote sensing tools. I was especially inspired by the synergy between science, policy, economy, and society. I now feel compelled to pursue precision measurement of DIC, DOC, and CO₂ fluxes, explore drone-based monitoring, and assess the social dimensions of blue carbon projects.”

Future Suggestions From Participants

What should future capacity-building efforts include?

Hands-on lab sessions: Especially for sediment dating, isotope tracking, and carbon quantification
Field immersion: Many expressed a desire for longer field-based activities
Micro-grant schemes: To sustain post-training alumni work
Project incubation spaces: For turning ideas into funded research
Practical modules: Less theory, more practice in site-specific data collection and analysis

WHAT’S NEXT?

We plan to continue organizing the training course in 2026. For partnership inquiries or consultation, please contact us at cbcmsr@ecnu.edu.cn.

IMBeR Young Scholar (IYS) Program Update

Dr. Peng Lian, Co-leader of CLIOTOP Task Team, Appointed to PICES Advisory Panel on Early Career Ocean Professionals

We are delighted to announce that Dr. Peng Lian, Assistant Professor at the Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, has been appointed to serve on the North Pacific Marine Science Organization (PICES) Advisory Panel on Early Career Ocean Professionals (AP-ECOP). This appointment recognizes Dr. Lian’s significant contributions to marine science and his growing leadership within the international ocean research community.

Dr. Lian’s journey with IMBeR has been one of growth and collaboration. His engagement began with the IMBeR West Pacific Symposium in 2021. In recent years, he has taken on a pivotal role as the co-leader of the Task Team 2023/04 on “The Climatic Impacts of Marine Heatwaves (MHWs) on Top Predators in the Tropical Oceans,” under the IMBeR Regional Programme CLIOTOP (CLimate Impacts on TOp Predators). Together with his mentor and co-leader, Dr. Barbara Muhling of the University of California, Santa Cruz.

The team’s primary contribution lies in developing advanced deep learning models to improve predictions of bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) distribution in the eastern Pacific, particularly under El Niño and high-frequency MHW conditions. By integrating MHW metrics into AI-based habitat models, the team is uncovering how surface and subsurface thermal anomalies influence tuna movements and ecological interactions. This work is critical for understanding how climate-driven ocean changes affect commercially important species such as yellowfin (Thunnus albacares), bigeye, and skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), which are essential to global food security and the sustainability of tropical tuna fisheries. Through a real-world application of these models, the Task Team aims to anticipate how changing ocean conditions may reshape tuna communities, informing adaptive fisheries management strategies.

Progress and science advancements undertaken by Task Team 2023/02 as shown through a (A) flow chart of the tuna data preparation, progress and analysis, and (B) framework of XAI analysis to reconstruct global tropical tuna habitats.

In recognition of his academic achievements, Dr. Peng Lian has recently been appointed as a Youth Editorial Board Member of the Journal of Marine Environmental Engineering (indexed in Ei Compendex and Scopus) for the 2025–2026 term.

We extend our congratulations to Dr. Lian and look forward to his continued contributions to the global ocean research community.

IMBeR IPO 2024-2025 Internship Program

Interns' Feedback

We are proud to share that our dedicated student interns from East China Normal University have successfully completed their internships at the IMBeR International Project Office. During their time with us, they gained hands-on experience in international project coordination, science communication, and academic outreach.

We sincerely congratulate them on their meaningful achievements and thank them for their enthusiasm and hard work. As they embark on the next steps of their journey, we wish them continued growth and success.

Here’s a look at what they’ve accomplished—and what they’ve learned along the way.

** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** Trailblazer Intern Award ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** **

Zhiyan Yin - As an environmental science student, I am profoundly honored to participate in the IMBeR internship program. Working as an intern at IMBeR is a good opportunity for me to meet new challenges and realize my full potential. Under the guidance of my mentor, I engaged comprehensively in the preparation and execution of the Future Ocean 3 conference. My responsibilities extended beyond logistical support to include designing participant surveys, analyzing registration data, and coordinating real-time assistance during sessions.This diverse responsibility spectrum allows me to confront multifaceted challenges, cultivate transferable competencies, and enhance essential skills spanning communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.

This immersive experience offered invaluable insights into the operational dynamics of an international scientific organization. I witnessed firsthand how IMBeR bridges disciplinary divides and fosters transboundary collaborations among researchers . The meticulous planning behind each session—from integrating diverse scientific perspectives to addressing regional environmental challenges—revealed how global knowledge networks transform research into actionable policies.

The internship has reshaped my professional trajectory. Beyond sharpening technical skills in data management and stakeholder communication, it instilled the imperative of science diplomacy. As climate disruptions intensify, platforms like IMBeR prove that humanity’s resilience lies not in fragmented efforts, but in united scientific mobilization. Moving forward, I aspire to contribute to such boundary-spanning initiatives, transforming academic knowledge into tools for planetary healing.

** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** Bridge to Practice Award ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** **

Weicheng Xue - It's an honor to serve as an intern at the IMBeR IPO in my final undergraduate year. As a student majoring in Geographic Sciences, I have always been interested in sustainability and the SDGs especially in the sustainable development of ocean. The internship at the IMBeR IPO provided me with an opportunity to apply my knowledge and skills.

During my internship, I was involved in various tasks including translation, content formatting, and poster design. The most memorable experience was participating in the Future Oceans 3 as a volunteer. I assisted with pre-conference preparation and on-site support, which required searching extensive English materials, learning new websites, English communication, and quick problem-solving. Initially, I struggled with unfamiliar tasks like designing promotional materials and oral communication, leading to inefficiency. Fortunately, the patient and kind guidance from teachers, along with the support of my peers, helped me quickly adapt and overcome each challenge.

This internship exposed me to international academic organizations and cutting-edge marine research, deepening my understanding of interdisciplinary studies on ocean sustainability. It also provided me with valuable experience working in an international, multicultural environment. Overall, this was an unforgettable experience that strengthened both my mindset and skills, better preparing me for future challenges.

** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** Deep Dive Engagement Award ** ** ** ** ** ** ** **

Shiqing Sun - My six-month internship at the IMBeR International Project Office (IPO) marked my first step into international scientific collaboration as a Marine Chemistry graduate student, and it was also my first extended internship.

My journey with IMBeR began in the way as a volunteer for the Maritime Silk Road Coastal Blue Carbon International Training Program. This was my first time ever being part of the organizing team for an international event. Through this experience, I got to be part of every step of bringing such a complex event. Additionally, I honed my skills in multitasking and emergency response through practical experience. It was challenging, but incredibly rewarding.

Even though my internship was relatively short and I only touched a small part of the office’s vast work, I still felt that the office's work is highly detailed, diverse, complex, and professional. For example, the office needs to efficiently integrate various types of information and maintain precise communication with global partners; it requires meticulous management of the promotional account for activities, from content creation to layout design, striving for professionalism; it also involves systematically planning the entire activity process and presenting it as a clear path to others.

I feel especially lucky to have been guided by such supportive mentors. I sincerely thank Professor Hong, Ms. Fang Zuo, Ms. Kai Qin, and Ms. Suhui Qian for their meticulous guidance and warm support. Their guidance has inspired my professional thinking, helped me master the workflow, resolved my practical operational challenges, and created an inclusive environment for growth. The professional competence and personal charisma of these teachers have become the most precious assets in my journey.

Finally, a heartfelt thank you to everyone I had the chance to learn from and work alongside during my time there.

** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** Most Meritorious Service Award** ** ** ** ** ** ** **

Yue Zhao - I joined IMBeR as an intern in November 2024, and worked in the international project office for approximately seven months. As an undergraduate student majoring in Marxist theory, I actually felt the charm of interdisciplinary and cross-cultural communication during this internship, which is an unforgettable experience for me.

Reflecting on this internship experience, I have gradually achieved my initial intention for applying for it. I improved my writing and media promotion skills when involving in poster design, graphic layout, and text translation. I learned about the forefront of marine academia in my daily work, which broadened my horizon and knowledge. During the process of completing tasks such as video editing and organizing materials, I improved my communication and collaboration skills.

One of the most unforgettable experience for me is assisting in organizing IMBeR Synthesis and Future Planning Conference (Future Ocean3). Before the opening of the conference, I mainly assisted in organizing the forum agenda and editing promotional information. During the conference, I supported conference affairs with other volunteers and helped attendees solve simple problems. After the conference, I was responsible for organizing part of the video materials. Although the task I undertook is simple and not very heavy, I am very happy to contribute to the smooth progress of the conference. The experience not only helped me understand the process of international academic conferences, but also enhanced my English speaking skills and enlarged my views.

Last but not least, I want to express my sincere appreciation to IMBeR for providing me with a valuable internship opportunity. These experiences constitute precious treasure on the journey of my life. I will remember them and embrace more unknowns and challenges in the future.

** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** Master of the Cut Award ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** **

Jiamei Liu - I was fortunate to join IMBeR in 2024 and completed a two-month administrative internship. Initially, I was uncertain about my ability to meet the competency requirements of the internship project. However, with the patient guidance and continuous encouragement from Professor Qin and Professor Qian, I gradually adapted to the internship environment and successfully overcame various work-related challenges. In the working hours, the professors treated their tasks with rigor and responsibility, and assigned specific tasks based on each intern's strengths to help us develop and utilize our potential. In the free time, the professors were willing to listen to our concerns at this stage of life and offered advice based on their experiences, helping to ease our anxiety.

During my internship, my daily tasks included document writing, data statistics, proofreading of briefings and information verification, which enabled me to exercise and enhance my personal abilities. More importantly, I had the opportunity to participate in the preparation of an international training program, working closely with other team members to ensure its successful implementation. During this process, I gained valuable insights into the cutting-edge knowledge in ecological conservation, accumulated invaluable internship experience, and even found inspiration and materials for my undergraduate thesis, effectively integrating professional theory with practical application.

In summary, I am very fortunate to have chosen this internship and deeply grateful to all the professors and colleagues I met during this period. Their presence made this internship experience even more wonderful. In the future, I will carry the experiences and growth from this internship, along with the encouragement and expectations from my professors, and continue to move forward with determination and dedication.

** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** Voice of Precision Award ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** **

Litiantian Gao - I would like to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude to all the mentors and team members at IMBeR for their constant support and guidance throughout my internship. It has been a truly rewarding experience to grow in such a professional and inspiring environment.

As a junior majoring in Translation at East China Normal University, I joined IMBeR with the hope of improving my language skills and gaining insight into the work of an international organization. During the internship, I was involved in a variety of tasks including translating documents, drafting news reports, and coordinating with experts. One of the most memorable experiences was attending the World Laureates (WLA) Forum, where I assisted in filming and reporting. There, I witnessed top scientists in marine research share groundbreaking ideas. Their passion for advancing science deeply inspired me and strengthened my determination to use language as a tool for cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural exchange.

These hands-on tasks not only enhanced my translation abilities but also helped me develop stronger communication and teamwork skills. With patient instruction from the IMBeR mentors, I gained confidence and learned how to handle responsibilities in real-world settings.

This internship was more than just work. It opened my eyes to global scientific collaboration and the power of language in bridging disciplines and cultures. I am sincerely thankful for the trust and support from the IMBeR team. I hope future interns will cherish this valuable opportunity, stay curious, and embrace every challenge.

** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** Lens of Insight Award ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** **

Zhixun Yu - As a graduate student majoring in International Affairs, I’m pleased to share my internship experience at the IMBeR office this year. Guided by my supervisor, I dived into international cooperation projects, policy analysis, and cross-border communication—areas closely tied to my studies.

I assisted in organizing international symposiums, compiling transnational research data, drafting policy briefs, and coordinating with overseas institutions. I also handled logistics for virtual bilateral meetings. Professionally, I challenged myself by translating international cooperation agreements and preparing multilateral project reports, benefiting greatly from mentors’ patient revisions.

This experience boosted my cross-cultural communication and policy analysis skills. I deepened my understanding of marine sustainability and global environmental cooperation. IMBeR’s blend of academic rigor and collaborative flexibility was inspiring, and interactions with excellent interns enriched me.

Thank you to all IMBeR mentors for fostering my growth. Joining the team truly broadens one’s abilities and vision.

We welcome students from all departments of East China Normal University (ECNU) to apply for our internship programs. Our programs are designed to cater to each student's field of study. We would like to express our gratitude to the State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research (SKLEC) and the Student Affairs Office of ECNU for their support. Please stay tuned for more capacity development opportunities in the future by subscribing to our updates.

Doctoral Forum: Experiencing China – Dialogue on the Maritime Silk Road

October 10–13, 2019 | Chongming Island, Shanghai, China

The “Doctoral Forum: Experiencing China – Dialogue on the Maritime Silk Road" brought together 41 international students from 25 countries. Through a combination of keynote speeches, parallel academic sessions, and immersive field visits, the forum provided a dynamic platform for interdisciplinary exchange and cross-cultural dialogue.

Participants visited Yangshan Deep-Water Port, one of the world’s largest automated container terminals, gaining firsthand insights into China’s maritime infrastructure and global trade connectivity. Team-building activities on Changxing Island further deepened intercultural understanding and friendship among students from diverse backgrounds.

Academic discussions were structured around three interrelated themes:

Maritime Silk Road and the exchange of civilization across regions
Estuarine and coastal science & technology and sustainable ecosystem
To build a world of common prosperity through win-win cooperation

A special issue has been published, compiling 40 peer-reviewed articles contributed by international participants. This collection showcases the breadth of academic inquiry and underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in tackling urgent global challenges at the nexus of science, society, and sustainability.

Read the special issue here

IMBeR Doctoral Forum at Future Oceans 3

May 15, 2025 | Shanghai, China

The IMBeR Doctoral Forum 2025, held as part of the Future Oceans 3 (FO3) Conference, successfully provided a dynamic platform for recent and soon-to-be PhD graduates in marine sciences to present their research and engage with leading scientists, policymakers, and peers. Focused on strengthening interdisciplinary partnerships and supporting early-career researchers, especially from low- to medium-income countries—the forum featured oral presentations, speed talks, and poster sessions on cutting-edge topics such as ocean acidification impacts on coral reefs, nutrient and organic carbon cycling, mangrove degradation, women’s roles in the blue economy, marine microplastic assessment, and potential carbon sequestration mechanisms. Participants also benefited from mentorship opportunities by senior researchers while serving as session rapporteurs. Travel support grants from SCOR enabled broad international participation. Inspired by initiatives like DISCO, the forum fostered capacity building, amplified early-career voices, and enriched global ocean science dialogue. The event’s success highlights the importance of nurturing the next generation of marine biosphere researchers dedicated to advancing ocean sustainability.

Together, these two Doctoral Forums—one rooted in the cultural and historical context of the Maritime Silk Road, and the other embedded in the global scientific momentum of Future Oceans 3—demonstrate the power of international academic exchange in shaping a more inclusive, collaborative, and sustainable future for our oceans. By connecting diverse perspectives, promoting interdisciplinary research, and empowering early-career scientists, these initiatives reflect IMBeR’s ongoing commitment to cultivating the next generation of leaders in marine biosphere research.

Community Highlights

New Publication

Mangubhai, S., Vave, R., Begg, S. S., Chung, M., Dileqa, S. V., Golbuu, Y., Gomese, C., Kant, R., Kitolelei, S., Ram, R., Thomas, N., Varea, R., & Whiteside, A. (2025). Increasing Pacific Islander research and authorship in the academic literature. Pacific Conservation Biology, 31(4), -. https://www.publish.csiro.au/paper/PC25011

Li, S., Addey, C. I., Roman, R., Hayashida, H., Jiang, C., Hu, C., … Luo, T. (2025). Early career ocean professionals declaration on Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions for our ocean and future. The Innovation, Article 101007. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xinn.2025.101007

Gutierrez, D., Calado, H., Toor, F. V., Moreira, M., Paramio, M. L., Martins, F., Santos, N., Melo, N., & Newton, A.(2025). Empowering maritime spatial planning and marine conservation efforts through digital engagement: The role of online platforms. Sustainability, 17(14), 6371. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146371

IMBeR Iran Representative Highlights Ocean Decade in Press

Dr. Maryam Ghaemi, IMBeR’s National Contact for Iran, was recently interviewed by Marine News—a specialized Iranian media outlet covering ocean and marine affairs—and by IRNA (Islamic Republic News Agency). In the interviews, she highlighted how the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) presents a strategic opportunity to advance Iran’s marine sustainable development.

2025 African Ocean Research Discovery Camp

The next Regional Graduate Network in Oceanography (RGNO), a SCOR-supported cooperative research and capacity building initiative, will take place from 29 September to 17 October 2025 at the University of Namibia's Sam Nujoma Marine Research Center in Henties Bay and Namibia's National Marine Information and Research Center in Swakopmund, Namibia.

Information about the course and instructions for applications can be found here (please click "Guest Access" if prompted).

Applications are due 25 July 2025.

IMBeR Relevant Sessions at OSM 2026

(Sessions chaired/co-chaired by IMBeR participants or linked to IMBeR science teams)

CM003 - Biogeochemical and Ecological Insights for Evaluation of Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal (mCDR)

CB008 - Nutrients as Drivers of Change in Polar Coastal Ecosystems

CB010 - Trait development and resilience of aquatic microbial communities to anthropogenic stressors in coastal oceans- a focus on the Global South

CB011 - Under Pressure: Multistressor Impacts on Coastal Vegetation and Greenhouse Gas Dynamics

F002 - Harnessing Fisheries Oceanography from Nowcasts to Climate Projections for Sustainable and Resilient Fisheries

HE010 - Pelagic ecosystems and nutrient cycles in a changing Southern Ocean

ME015 - Top Predators as Ecosystem Sentinels: A Novel Tool for Proactive Management

ME017 - Trait-Based Approaches to Biodiversity-Ecosystem Function and Biogeographic Patterns

OB004 - Animal-mediated Carbon Pathways: The Role of Metazoans in the Biological Carbon Pump

OB008 - Carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide cycling from the coast to the deep ocean

OB025 - Respiration in the Mesopelagic Ocean: Reconciling ecological, biogeochemical and model estimates

PI008 - Ocean Pathways: Physical and Biogeochemical Connectivity Across Subtropical and Polar Ocean Systems

SKLEC-Related Sessions at OSM 2026

(Sessions chaired/co-chaired by researchers affiliated with SKLEC — host of the IMBeR IPO — or related to SKLEC-led projects)

CB004 - Mapping, Monitoring, and Modelling Greenhouse Gas(GHG) Fluxes in Coastal habitats to Advance Blue Carbon Science

CM008 - The Science of Current and Emerging Blue Carbon Ecosystems

CP010 - Physical-Sedimentological-Ecological Coupled Dynamics in Turbid Estuary-Marginal Sea Continuum

HC012 - Plastics in the aquatic environment

Abstract Submission Deadline: Wednesday, 20 August 2025

For details on abstract guidelines and the submission portal, visit the OSM 2026 official website.

IMBeR is a Large-Scale Ocean Research Project under SCOR and a Global Research Project under Future Earth.

IMBeR International Project Office

State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University

500 Dongchuan Rd., Shanghai 200241, China

Tel: 86 021 5483 6463

E-mail: imber@ecnu.edu.cn

Chief Editor: Kai Qin | Editorial Coordination and Questionnaire Design

Editors: GiHoon HONG, Fang ZUO, Suhui QIAN from IMBeR IPO

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