"We want to draw attention to the valuable fjord and maritime areas linked to Skagerrak and Kattegat. Here we find some of the most densely populated coastal regions in Scandinavia," says Even Moland, a researcher at UiA's Centre for Coastal Research and the Institute of Marine Research (IMR).
Now, he and over 60 researchers, students and other ocean enthusiasts are ready for a voyage around Skagerrak aboard the Tall Ship Sørlandet.
UiA and the Institute of Marine Research have assembled a group including the Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), GRID-Arendal, the University of Oslo (UiO) and the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) for the voyage.
The University of Gothenburg and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences are participating from Sweden, while Denmark is represented by DTU Aqua.
Research onboard and events in every port
Onboard the ship are specialists in areas ranging from ocean currents, pollution, seabirds, cod, offshore wind farms, marine mammals, plankton, microplastics to seaweed and kelp. They have all conducted research on the sea, contributing to our understanding of how to better protect it.
Throughout the voyage, the researchers will engage in various activities, such as observing seabirds, studying plankton and listening for marine mammals.
In each port of call, they will host events featuring activities for children and young people, along with lectures and debates.
You can catch the voyage at the following locations:
- Kristiansand 9 June
- Farsund 11 June
- København 14 June
- Gøteborg 17 June
- Oslo 19 June
- Arendal 21 June
"An important part of this voyage is to inspire children and young people. We want to show that marine research is especially meaningful when the challenges are great," says Moland.
Critical condition for the ocean – showcasing solutions
The fjord and sea areas connected to the Skagerrak are important ecosystems for Norway, Sweden and Denmark. But the areas are under great pressure. Over eight million people live in these areas. The dense settlements and large agricultural zones contribute to nutrient emissions, pollution and coastal zone degradation.
At the same time, the sea is affected by climate change, including rising temperatures and marine heat waves, as well as enduring and intensive pressures from fisheries.
"There is a wealth of knowledge about how we can enhance ocean ecosystems, also for the future. Solutions exist, but they need to be put into practice," says Marte Sodeland, project leader for the voyage and associate professor at UiA's Centre for Coastal Research.
Part of the UN Decade of Ocean Science
2021-2030 has been declared the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.
The ‘Skagerrak Science and Solutions Sail’ has been recognized by the UN as one of the events within this initiative.
“That is something we’re very proud of. The voyage is a great way to mark the halfway point of the Decade of Ocean Science. Our goal is to help foster engagement and understanding of the ocean,” says Sodeland.
Funding from multiple sources
Agder County Council has provided a substantial contribution of NOK 600,000.
In addition, the following offer financial or other support: the Research Council of Norway, UiA, the Institute of Marine Research, UiO, NMBU, NIVA, GARD, the national parks in Raet, Jomfruland, Færder and Ytre Hvaler, as well as Sørlandet Science Centre and GRID-Arendal.
Follow the vlog and explore the Skagerrak Science and Solutions Sail
Contact the researchers:
- marte.sodeland@uia.no
- Phone
- +47 38 14 26 79
- even.moland@uia.no
- Phone
- +47 38 14 26 46