A pioneering project to restore coastal habitats has launched in Portsmouth, Hampshire, with the installation of new floating wetlands designed to improve local water quality and support marine life.
The project is led by the University of Portsmouth in partnership with Southern Water. These floating systems, which host a range of saltmarsh plants, have been installed at the Southcoast Wake Park, located within the historic moat of Hilsea Lines. This specific type of marine-based floating saltmarsh system is rare, having been trialled only six times previously anywhere in the world.
Dr Ian Hendy, a senior lecturer in marine biology at the university, is leading the research team. The initiative comes at a critical time, as researchers note that more than 85 per cent of aquatic and marine vegetation, such as saltmarsh and seagrass, has been lost across the country over the last 50 years.
To monitor the project, scientists will use environmental DNA sequencing to track changes in biodiversity, including fish, invertebrates, bacteria, and fungi. This technology will also help identify the sources of bacteriological communities, a key step for Southern Water as it works to protect local shellfish and improve the quality of bathing water.
The floating wetlands aim to provide several environmental benefits, including the absorption of pollutants, the creation of habitats for pollinators and aquatic species, and the capture of carbon. Joff Edevane, environment and water quality lead for Southern Water, said that if these trials prove successful, the technology could be expanded to other marine and freshwater environments across the UK. With coastal ecosystems estimated to be worth £211 billion to the national economy, the project represents a significant effort to restore vital natural infrastructure.
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