This is the preliminary program. It will be updated as details are finalized. Keep an eye on the page.
| No | Title | Session Chairs | Description |
| 1 | Co-existence at sea – opportunities and challenges | Andrea Fischel, Tim Wilms, Jens Kjerulf Pedersen, Annette Bruhn |
Der er pres på verdens ressoucer med en voksende befolkning og øget behov for både energi, fødevarer og materialer samtidig med, at der sker klimaforandringer og et fald i biodiversitet. Det skaber konkurrence om pladsen til havs mellem produktion af ressourcer og beskyttet natur. Multi-use kan være en del af løsningen på konkurrencen om plads på havet. Multi-use er som oftest sameksistens mellem anlæg til produktion af vedvarende energi og andre formål som fx akvakultur og skånsomt fiskeri eller naturgenopretning/biodiversitetsfremme, men kan også antage andre former. Hvilke erfaringer har vi med sameksistens eller marin multi-use i Danmark? Hvordan adresserer vi udfordringerne, ikke mindst de tekniske - og er det overhovedet rentabelt at producere fødevarer i et offshore miljø? Med denne session er der fokus på, om det biologisk og teknisk er muligt med multi-use? Hvordan kan vi udnytte fordelene? Hvordan løser vi udfordringerne? Hvordan måler vi de kumulative effekter? Hvordan deler vi data? Der er også administrative barriere for offshore multi-use. Så hvordan integrerer vi reelt produktion af fossilfri energi, fiskeri, akvakultur, miljøovervågning, turisme, og transport samtidig med, at vi beskytter og genopretter marine økosystemer? Vi inviterer til præsentationer med praktiske erfaringer og resultater, såvel som mere teoretiske overvejelser om multi-use på havet. |
| 2 | Formidling af havforskning – at oversætte videnskab til handlemuligheder | Berit Charlotte Kaae, Christian Riisager-Simonsen, Signe Brokjær Nielsen, Peter Bondo mfl |
I en tid hvor klimaforandringer, biodiversitetstab og havforurening er centrale udfordringer, er formidling af havforskning vigtigere end nogensinde. Denne session fokuserer på, hvordan havforskning effektivt formidles til både beslutningstagere, erhvervslivet og offentligheden. Formålet er at drøfte, hvordan vi bedst formidler videnskabelige resultater for at sikre handlingsorienterede løsninger. Gennem præsentationer og diskussioner præsenteres deltagerne for eksempler på formidling, herunder brug af events, digitale platforme, visuel kommunikation og storytelling. Vi diskuterer udfordringerne ved at kommunikere kompleks forskning, der stadig er i gang med at blive udviklet, og hvordan man skaber engagement omkring havforskning, så det ikke kun er relevant for forskere, men også for samfundet som helhed. Tanken er, at sessionen skal samle forskere, kommunikatører og interessenter for at fremme samarbejde på tværs af discipliner og sektorer. Deltagerne får indsigt i, hvordan formidling kan styrke forskningsindsatsen og sikre, at havforskning får den opmærksomhed og de ressourcer, der er nødvendige for at tackle de udfordringer, vi står overfor her i FNs Tiår for Havet. Sessionen vil bidrage til diskussionerne og udvekslingen af ideer om, hvordan vi bedst gør havforskning tilgængelig og relevant for alle. Ligeledes vil vi gerne diskutere, hvordan vi kan forankre havformidlingsindsatserne i et mere stabilt og længerevarende perspektiv end kortvarende projekter fx i regi af Havets Årti eller andre strukturer. |
| 3 | Marine virkemidler som driver for et godt havmiljø |
Lisbeth Jess Plesner, Dalgas og Maren Lyngsgaard, WSP (Netværk for Havets Genopretning) |
Sessionen vil sætte fokus på muligheder og udfordringer med anvendelse af marine virkemidler i storskala, herunder hvordan marine virkemidler kan accelerere opnåelse af et godt havmiljø inden for en kortere tidshorisont sideløbende med implementering af indsatser på land samt reduktion af andre presfaktorer. Havmiljøet er under alvorligt pres, der er manglende målopfyldelse i alle kystområder, og ret meget bedre ser det ikke ud trods implementering af Grøn Treparts ambitiøse indsatser inden for en kortere tidshorisont. I udkast til de opdaterede vandområdeplaner forventes således kun, at 16 ud af 123 kystområder er i god økologisk tilstand i 2027. Den grønne trepart peger på anvendelse af marine virkemidler som fx tang, muslinger, biogene rev og ålegræs som en supplerende indsat mod et bedre havmiljø. Sessionen vil give bud på hvordan forbedringen af havmiljøet kan accelereres med aktiv marin genopretning i skala. |
| 4 | Marine restoration in a Danish context | Mogens Flindt (SDU), Peter A.U. Stæhr (AU), Jens K. Petersen (DTU-AQUA), Torben B. Jørgensen (Limfjordsrådet). Alle fra Center for marin naturgenopretning. | With the continued degradation of marine ecosystems, including collapse in fisheries, increasing anoxia, loss of seagrasses, and blooms of algae and jellyfish, it is obvious that our current approaches to manage the different pressures (eutrophication, fisheries, climate change etc.) have failed. Both in Danish and European seas. The EU nature restoration law sets novel targets for restoration marine ecosystems, and Denmark has established a Marine nature fund, both of which emphases the importance of restoration of lost habitats and endangered species. While this is encouraging, it is essential that a thoughtful approach is applied for future restoration projects to be successful. This requires consideration of where we should prioritize our restoration efforts, what we aim to obtain, how we should document restoration success, which restoration methods we should apply. We invite presentations which provides insights into these matters and contribute with examples of how to best plan and execute marine restoration activities in a Danish context. |
| 5 | Succeshistorier fra over 50 års natur- og miljøforvaltning |
Jesper P. A. Christensen Karen Timmermann |
De første spadestik til den moderne vestlige miljøforvaltning blev taget i starten af 1970erne. Blandt andet holdt FN sin første miljøkonference, “Conference on the Human Environment” i Stockholm i 1972 og forløberen til det danske miljøministerium blev oprettet i 1971. Den første danske fiskerikvote blev indført på Nordsøsilden i 1974 og gråsælen blev fredet i Danmark i 1967. Denne session handler om succeshistorierne fra et halvt århundredes miljøforvaltning. Hvad har virket og hvilke forudsætninger var til stede? Eksempler kan spænde lige fra regulering til genopretning af marin natur og må gerne dække både enkelte arter, økosystemer/naturtyper og gamle og nyere eksempler. Gerne med nogle stærke budskaber om hvorfor forvaltningen har virket. |
| 6 | Miljøfarlige stoffer og Plastik i Havmiljøet | Jakob Strand (AU), Kristian Syberg (RUC) og Martin Mørk Larsen (AU | Forekomst, skæbne, tidslig udvikling og miljøpåvirkninger af miljøfarlige forurenende stoffer og plastik i kystnære og åbne farvande inklusiv Arktis. Dette omfatter også undersøgelser af miljøbelastninger ved brug af nye prøvetagnings- og måleteknikker, effektstudier, fødekæderelationer, vurderinger af kilder og tiltag til at begrænse forureningen fra disse |
| 7 | Green solutions or green washing – science industrial cooperation in solving future challenges |
Annette Bruhn, Aarhus University Lone Mouritsen, Kattegatcenteret Susan Holdt, DTU FOOD Marianne Thomsen, University of Copenhagen |
Der er et politisk ønske om at fremtidens grønne løsninger udvikles i samarbejde mellem forskning og erhverv. Derfor udbydes store puljer til forskning og innovation til projekter, hvor forskere og virksomheder arbejder sammen. Samtidig har virksomheder i stigende grad fokus på at dokumentere deres aftryk på klima og miljø, bl.a. fordi EU's nye regler stiller krav til bæredygtighedsrapportering (CSRD), bæredygtighed i værdikæder (CSDDD), produkters bæredygtighed (ecodesign) og til grøn markedsføring (Green Claims). Det skaber behov for standarder for bl.a. bæredygtighed, carbon storage, og biodiversitet. Det er bydende nødvendigt, at grønne løsninger og standarder er underbygget af solid forskning og dokumentation, så vi reelt opnår de forbedringer for klima og havmiljø, som hævdes – både når det gælder naturgenopretning, fiskeri, akvakultur, energiproduktion og anlægsarbejde på havet. Hvordan kan forskning og virksomheder indenfor det marine område bedst arbejde sammen mod de gode og nødvendige grønne løsninger? Hvordan sikrer vi at armslængde-princippet bliver håndhævet – og hvordan undgår man som forsker, at ens viden bliver ’misforstået’ eller i værste fald ’misbrugt’? Hvor ligger de gråzoner, vi skal have fokus på indenfor havforskningen? I denne session inviterer vi oplægsholdere til at dele både gode og dårlige erfaringer og eksempler. |
| 8 | Nyt om forskningsprogrammer, -finansiering og -infrastruktur | Haidi Cecilie Petersen (SDU) & Christian Riisager-Simonsen (DTU) |
Denne session giver et overblik over de nyeste udviklinger inden for forskningsprogrammer, -initiativer, -finansiering, og infrastrukturadgang med relevans for danske havforskere. Vi indbyder i denne session alle interessenter til at levere oplæg der kan belyse synergierne mellem disse initiativer og relaterede politikker, samt de strategiske implikationer og muligheder for dansk havforskning. Der forventes således præsentationer om alt fra EU-programmer, til nationale fonde og infrastruktur. Sessionen vil bestå af korte præsentationer, hhv. om infrastruktur og synergier, og finansieringsprogrammer, efterfulgt af en paneldebat, hvor deltagerne kan stille spørgsmål og drøfte strategier for optimal udnyttelse af finansierings- og infrastrukturmuligheder i de kommende år. |
| 9 | Greenland’s coastal ecosystems in a changing climate | Tobias R Vonnahme, Thomas Juul-Pedersen, Lorenz Meire, Mie S Winding, Sandra Maier | Greenland’s coastal ecosystems are important productivity hotspots, essential for local communities that rely on marine resources. However, these Arctic ecosystems are changing rapidly due to climate change, driven by both terrestrial and offshore drivers. The melting of the Greenland Ice Sheet and the retreat of marine terminating glaciers alters catchment properties, impacting primary production through changes in nutrient and light availability. Locally, sea ice loss eliminates crucial habitats for ice-associated species. Shifts in ocean currents modify coastal boundary conditions, influencing nutrient availability and the introduction of potentially invasive species. To fully grasp these complex changes and their drivers, a holistic, interdisciplinary approach is necessary. This approach should integrate knowledge of offshore, local, and terrestrial processes, from physical and chemical foundations, via phytoplankton dynamics, up to top predators and human impacts. This session is open to a diverse range of topics in or associated with Greenland’s coastal ecosystems. The session will explore how changes in catchment properties, glacial melt, sea ice dynamics, and offshore conditions such as ocean currents are impacting local ecosystem functionality, productivity, and biodiversity. By integrating knowledge from broad disciplines, such as climate modelling, hydrology, physical oceanography, biogeochemistry, ecosystem modeling, and fisheries science, we aim to better understand the complex interactions within these ecosystems and role of offshore vs inshore drivers. The findings presented aim to highlight knowledge gaps and needs for future collaborations across disciplines. |
| 10 | Beskyttede havområder - Effektive værktøjer til at genoprette havet eller streger på et søkort? | Mads Christoffersen, Pernille Schou Jacobsen Tænketanken Hav og Thomas Kirk Sørensen WWF Verdensnaturfonden. |
I EU er der et mål om at 30 % af havarealet skal være beskyttet senest i 2030. Allerede i dag findes der en række beskyttede områder på det danske havareal. Men der er uklarhed om definitionen af ’beskyttelse’ og dermed de reelle effekter af de beskyttede områder. Beskyttelse kan dække over vidt forskellige tiltag – fra strengt beskyttede områder med minimal menneskelig indgriben til områder, hvor kommercielle aktiviteter fortsat finder sted. Nogle områder eksisterer primært på papiret, mens andre reelt bidrager til bevaring af havets biodiversitet. Men hvordan påvirker vi mennesker disse beskyttede havområder – direkte og indirekte? Fysiske påvirkninger som kommercielt fiskeri, skibstrafik og råstofindvinding kan reducere beskyttelsens effekt, men også klimaforandringer, næringsstoffer, forurening og invasive arter spiller en rolle. Samtidig er overvågning og håndhævelse afgørende faktorer. Hvis beskyttelsen ikke er effektiv, risikerer vi, at vi ikke opnår vores miljømål for de marine økosystemer, at tilliden til bevaringsindsatsen svækkes, og at de politiske ambitioner mister deres gennemslagskraft. I denne session præsenteres, hvad den eksisterende forskning viser om effekten af beskyttede områder i Danmark og internationalt på de forskellige dele af økosystemet. Vi diskuterer, om vores danske beskyttede områder rent faktisk bevarer biodiversiteten og hvad Danmark kan lære af internationale erfaringer? Er der behov for skærpet regulering, bedre udpegninger eller bedre håndhævelse? Kan beskyttede områder bidrage til stærkere fiskebestande og øget biodiversitet? Og hvis vi skal balancere beskyttelse med benyttelse, hvordan gør vi det klogest? Sammen dykker vi ned i udfordringerne og potentialerne ved den nuværende beskyttelsesindsats – og ser på, hvordan vi sikrer en mere effektiv forvaltning af Danmarks havområder i fremtiden. |
| 11 | Oceanografiske ekstremer og impacts |
Morten Andreas Dahl Larsen, DMI Martin Drews, DTU |
Denne session adresserer studier fra hele kæden af oceanografiske ekstremer: 1) Fra teoretisk estimering af ekstremer til anvendt brug og brugerbehov. 2) På tværs af statistisk-, numerisk-fysisk- og ML- baserede tilgange. 3) For både nutid og fremtid. Samt, 4) for både event- og klima-skala og operationelle samt tilpasnings-relaterede anvendelser. Bidrag er ikke relaterede til fysisk relaterede parametre, men kan også adressere biologi, kemi, transport mv. Både enkeltvariable såsom havniveau og temperatur, men også multi-variable og koblede processer er velkomne. |
| 12 | Pollution effects, assessment, and monitoring in the context of multiple stressors in the marine environment | Sinja Rist (DTU) & Zhanna Tairova (AU) |
Marine ecosystems face numerous challenges due to a variety of pressure factors that interact in complex ways, further exacerbating threats to marine life and ecosystem health. Chemical pollution, coastal eutrophication, ocean acidification, warming, commercial fishing, and habitat destruction are just a few examples of intensified human impacts on the marine environment. Among these, pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss—collectively referred to as the Triple Planetary Crisis—are particularly prominent. Enhancing our understanding of the combined effects of these stressors on marine organisms and ecosystems is essential for safeguarding the oceans and improving environmental management and policy. Addressing the challenges posed by diverse and interacting stressors requires a multi-stressor approach to environmental impact assessment, with a particular focus on their cumulative effects. Impacts on ecosystems can be assessed using biological effect measurements, which capture organismal and hence, ecosystem responses to various stressors, including pollution and climate-related changes. This necessitates the application of a diverse range of methodologies, such as field and laboratory experiments, ecotoxicological studies, meta-analyses, and modeling. This session welcomes studies on effect measurements, particularly biological responses to multiple stressors in marine and coastal environments. Topics of interest include the effects of pollution with hazardous substances, nutrients, climate change in coastal ecosystems, and habitat destruction. We encourage submissions involving both laboratory and field research, as well as data analysis and modeling. The key objective is to provide a forum that brings together diverse effect-related topics across different pressure factors, helping to build and advance a shared understanding of the multiple stressors approach. We aim to connect basic and applied research with practical efforts to mitigate and regulate current and emerging stressors. Therefore, we especially welcome interdisciplinary contributions on marine management and policy in the context of multiple stressors. |
| 13 | The North Atlantic: Impacts on Climate and Ecosystems | Ilana Schiller-Weiss, Marion Devilliers, Steffen M. Olsen |
Session proposal description: The North Atlantic Ocean plays a crucial role in modulating regional and global climate and its dynamics is supporting productive and diverse marine ecosystems. It exhibits a wide range of variability from interannual to decadal time scales. Global climate models predict that the North Atlantic will undergo major changes under a warming climate, which will likely impact European weather and climate, marine ecosystems and their services. This session aims to highlight research exploring oceanic and climate variability from both physical and biological perspectives in the North Atlantic. Presentations should focus on recent research findings, ranging from climate, ecosystems and process modeling to observational studies that examine key processes such as large-scale thermohaline circulation, ocean-atmosphere interactions, and the influence of a changing climate on marine biodiversity. Contributions are encouraged that address the interplay between physical and biological components, including societal and economic impacts with a focus on coastal communities. This session aims to identify knowledge gaps, collaborative opportunities, and open a dialogue on future research in the North Atlantic. |
| 14 | Hav og Klima | Ida Ringgaard, DMI | Havet vil ændre sig i fremtiden som følge af klimaforandringerne: vandet stiger, det bliver varmere og vores kyster vil oftere blive oversvømmet. Men hvordan har det allerede ændret sig, hvor slemt bliver det i fremtiden og hvordan påvirker det havmiljøet? Data om klimaet er essentielt for at kunne forstå og handle på dette, men hvad eksisterer og hvordan bruger man det? Denne session samler viden om hvilken data der er tilgængelig og hvordan det kan bruges til at understøtte samfundet samt indgå i klimaforskning. Dette inkluderer fysiske parametre såsom havniveau, stormfloder og havtemperatur, samt hvordan økosystemer og havmiljøet, i.e. marin flora og fauna, iltsvind etc, bliver påvirket af ændringerne. Bidrag modtages om alt fra indsamling af historiske klima data over tilgængelige klima dataprodukter såsom reanalyser til hvordan denne viden kan understøtte samfundet gennem klima services og planlægningsværktøjer såvel som i klimaforskning. |
| 15 | Development of Digital Twin of Ocean (DTO) |
Jun She Asbjørn Christensen Patrizio Mariani Henning Sten Hansen |
The concept of digital twins (DTs) is rapidly gaining traction within the ocean science community and Earth system science more broadly. A DT of Ocean is “a set of virtual information constructs that mimics the structure, context, behavior and evolution of a part or entire ocean system, dynamically updated with data from its physical twin throughout its life cycle and informs decisions that realize value". Via advanced simulation and emulation capabilities, it is updated by ingesting vast amounts of observational data of diverse types; and it enables WHAT-IF queries and multiple realizations to support prediction of responses of the ocean to hypothetical perturbations with quantified uncertainties. The DTO data product, tools and models are used as on-demand, relocatable and cloud-based applications and services. This session invites presentations on recent progresses made on the development and use of the DTOs, including data-driven models for DTO. |
| 16 | Increasing gender equality in marine research and fostering alternative problem-solving approaches: Building networks for women and gender diverse people |
Paulina Ramirez-Monsalve Josefin Ekstedt Ellen Johannesen |
Diversity and inclusion play a crucial role in fostering alternative ways of thinking and moving away from typical problem-solving approaches, yet women and gender diverse people are underrepresented in marine science globally, particularly at senior levels and in technical roles. For example, women constitute about one-third of researchers in ocean science across Europe This session aims to catalyze a researcher network for women and gender diverse people working in Marine Science in Denmark, Faroe Islands, and Greenland. Informal networks can contribute to create a more inclusive and equitable field, as well as helping navigate career challenges and access opportunities. We invite participants to explore together how we can create a supportive and collaborative community, extending our impact beyond the Havforskermøde 2026. We welcome researchers from various marine science disciplines, career stages, and institutions across Denmark, Faroe Islands, Greenland, and beyond. |
| 17 | Ocean prediction and coastal modelling |
Jens Murawski, Danish Meteorological Institut Janus Larsen, Aarhus University |
Ocean prediction and coastal modelling require interdisciplinary approaches that combine ocean observation systems, numerical and data driven AI/ML models, and forecasting techniques to provide real-time information on oceanic conditions and processes. This session will focus on the scientific advancements in operational oceanography, exploring how recent development in ocean modelling and the integration of observational networks, numerical simulations and data assimilation techniques is enhancing the capabilities of the forecasting systems to predict the ocean dynamic seamlessly across different spatial and temporal scales. Emphasis will be placed on high-resolution modelling resolving coastal scales, coupled modelling of ocean processes, remote sensing and the use of in-situ ocean monitoring techniques (platforms and autonomous devices) to provide products and services supporting maritime safety and hazard early warning system, fishery and resource management, as well as climate services. Impact resolving modelling is dealing both with natural hazards, like coastal erosion during storms and human introduced risks, like marine offshore installations: offshore wind farms. The session will also highlight recent developments in incorporating machine learning (AI/ML) techniques in operational services to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of ocean predictions. This session provides and overview over recent developments in ocean modelling, highlighting how technological advancements in ocean forecasting, coupled wave-ocean circulation modelling and progress ocean monitoring and observation-monitoring data integrating (data assimilation, blending) can help to improve the predictive quality of the ocean forecasts. |
| 18 | Benthic fauna communities | Jørgen Hansen |
Invertebrate fauna communities in and on the seafloor of Danish marine waters have high biodiversity potentials. At the same time, the benthic fauna serves as an important food source for fish and birds and controls physical and biogeochemical processes, such as sediment oxygenation, within the sediment that are critical for maintenance of important ecosystem functions. Monitoring of benthic fauna communities can provide information on the state of the seafloor, its biodiversity, biogeochemistry, environmental conditions and functioning of the marine food web. However, interpretation of benthic community data is challenging as individual infauna samples only cover one to a hundred billion of the seafloor area and only represents a snapshot of the population and community dynamics. This session invites presentations on benthic communities, their biodiversity-driven community processes and provision of ecosystem services. We welcome presentations on for example benthic fauna monitoring approaches, biodiversity mapping using e.g. eDNA, ecophysiology under environmental stress, food web functioning and community resilience to oxygen depletion. |
| 19 | Marine Mammals in a Changing Seascape | Lotte Kindt-Larsen (DTU AQUA) and Signe Sveegaard (AU) |
Marine mammals—seals and porpoises—serve as sentinel species in marine ecosystems, reflecting the health and dynamics of ocean environments. As climate change, industrial expansion, and renewable energy development reshape our seas, these species face a long list of ecological pressures. This theme session explores the multifaceted impacts of a rapidly changing environment on marine mammal populations, with a particular focus on their ecological roles and interactions with anthropogenic stressors. Key topics will include populations and distribution, feeding preferences and behavior driven prey availability, bycatch in commercial fisheries, and the ecological implications of offshore wind energy infrastructure. Special attention will be given to cumulative and synergistic studies exploring the how anthropogenic pressures impacts not only the marine mammal populations but also the ecosystem around them. The session welcomes contributions spanning empirical research, modeling approaches, and conservation strategies, including interdisciplinary perspectives that integrate ecology, oceanography, policy, and technology. By highlighting case studies and fostering dialogue across sectors, the session aims to advance our understanding of marine mammal ecology in the context of environmental change, and to inform effective, ecosystem-based management. |
| 20 | Marine biogeochemistry and microbial ecology | Christian Lønborg, Kasper Urup Kjeldsen; Catia Carreira; Signe Høgslund; Hans Røy | Biogeochemical cycles are the engine of the ocean, and these cycles are essentially regulated by microorganisms. Environmental human impacts can cause hypoxia, physical disturbance of the sea floor or eutrophication, which are all closely linked to biogeochemical processes mediated by microbes. During this session advances in our understanding of biogeochemical cycles and microbial ecology will be discussed. We welcome presentations that address biogeochemical processes in benthic and pelagic environments of both coastal and open ocean systems. Additionally, we also encourage submissions that address mechanisms behind observed patterns in biogeochemical variables, including their relations with climate and microbial population ecology and ecophysiology. While studies from around the world are welcome, we encourage presenters to consider including a Danish perspective where relevant. In this session we will therefore broadly invite studies providing new knowledge of marine biogeochemistry and microbial ecology in Danish marine waters and beyond. |
| 21 | Sensing the Sea – Advancing Marine Monitoring with Remote and in-situ Sensing Technologies |
Malte Pedersen, Sanjina U. Stæhr, Line Hermannsen, Jeppe Have Rasmussen, Alexander Hayward, Andreas Michael Holbach |
The marine environments in Denmark and Greenland are increasingly threatened by human activities and climate change. Overfishing and pollution are causing significant damage, including changes to ecosystems, fish stock collapses, and habitat degradation. In recent years, public awareness of these issues has grown, leading to an increase in volunteering and politically supported initiatives. Nonetheless, continuous monitoring programs in restored areas are critical; not only for evaluating the environmental outcomes, but also to sustain public interest and engagement in marine restoration and observation projects. In all cases, monitoring ecosystem responses at appropriate spatial and temporal scales is essential to document recovery and guide adaptive management. Current monitoring approaches rely heavily on in-situ observations using ship- and diver-based methods, which are time-consuming, costly, and prone to observer bias. Fortunately, recent advances in automated, sensor-based monitoring techniques offer promising alternatives, with the potential to deliver cost-effective and scalable observations across various marine systems. These include restoration sites as well as broader coastal and offshore environments. This session invites researchers, engineers, and practitioners to present innovative methods for automating and scaling marine environmental monitoring. We welcome contributions exploring the use of visual and auditory sensors, artificial intelligence, satellite and drone-based remote sensing, and other emerging technologies that enhance the collection and analysis of marine data. These technologies enable repeatable, spatially extensive monitoring of water quality, habitat conditions, species distributions, and ecosystem change over time. Join us as we explore how technological advancements are transforming marine monitoring, supporting evidence-based decision-making, and fostering greater transparency and public engagement in ocean conservation. This session explores how remote sensing (RS) technologies, from drones to satellites, alongside other automated sensing systems, both in and under the water, can revolutionize marine monitoring. RS offers a powerful suite of tools for tracking ocean health, monitoring water quality, and mapping coastal and benthic habitats at varying spatial, spectral, and temporal resolutions. Satellites routinely monitor ocean parameters such as temperature, salinity, phytoplankton dynamics, and turbidity, while drones enable ultra-high-resolution mapping in coastal zones, including species-level observations. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) further expand the utility of these technologies by facilitating the processing of vast datasets and revealing complex ecological patterns. AI-enhanced sensing provides new opportunities for near real-time assessments of ecosystem condition and biodiversity trends—from local interventions to global-scale observations. We invite contributions that demonstrate innovative methods and applications for automating marine ecosystem monitoring, with themes including: AI-powered analysis of sensor data from marine environments (in situ, drones, satellites) Remote sensing of water quality, turbidity, oxygen, and phytoplankton composition Species and habitat mapping using aerial, underwater, and satellite sensors Sensor integration across RS platforms Scalable, cost-efficient frameworks for continuous marine monitoring This session aims to bring together interdisciplinary researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to explore the future of marine ecosystem observation through the integration of remote sensing and AI. |
| 22 | Marine and Coastal Birds in danish waters: Importance and Human Interactions | Morten Frederiksen (AU ECOS), Preben Clausen, Gildas Glemarec (DTU Aqua), Nis Sand Jacobsen (DTU Aqua), Lisbeth Tangaa Nielsen, Tony Fox, Kevin Clausen,Thomas Bregnballe |
Danish marine and coastal waters are internationally very important for millions of breeding and visiting birds, due to the extensive, shallow and highly productive areas. Birds form an integral part of marine ecosystems and food webs, as predators on fish or benthic invertebrates, or as grazers on submerged meadows. What is more, birds are easy to observe and can serve as indicators of the health of the ocean. While many coastal birds are well covered by existing national monitoring programmes, the same is not true for offshore birds. Moreover, the ecological drivers affecting population changes are poorly understood for both groups. Many marine and coastal bird populations are in decline following environmental changes such as climate change, habitat deterioration, or introduction of new predators. Additionally, marine and coastal birds are negatively affected by human activities at sea, e.g. offshore infrastructure, shipping, hunting, bycatch in fisheries, and pollution – including eutrophication. Several bird species feed on fish or shellfish that are also targeted by fisheries, and the resulting competition can affect both bird populations and fisheries yields. These trophic interactions impact both bird conservation and fisheries management. In this session, we invite submissions of studies on the distribution and abundance of marine and coastal birds in Danish waters, as well as case studies showcasing the complex interactions between birds, other marine organisms, and human interests. This includes studies on foraging ecology and marine food web dynamics of birds, on interactions between birds and fisheries through predation on target species and incidental captures in fishing gears (bycatch), on interactions between birds and offshore wind farms, on the impact of eutrophication on coastal birds, or on the application of bird demographic data to assessments under the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive or the Water Framework Directive. We aim to receive contributions from scientists and stakeholders working with birds, marine ecology, fisheries, marine conservation and fisheries management, as well as those working on indicators for both food webs and bird distributions. We expect this session to have a broad scope covering several disciplines such as ornithology, fisheries management, marine spatial planning, and general marine ecology. |
| 23 | Non-indigenous marine species – dispersal, effects, monitoring and mitigation. | Jens T. Høeg, KU, Henrik Glenner, Universitetet i Bergen, Peter A.U. Stæhr (AU), Helle Buur (AU), Adam Koziol (AU), Cornelia Jaspers (DTU-Aqua) |
The number of non-native species in Danish waters is around 125 and increases by about 2 species each year. Some of these exotic species are invasive and pose significant threats to marine ecosystems, with potential economic and health consequences. Their impact depends on their ability to adapt to local conditions and interact with native species. The reasons for their introduction vary, and their effects are often poorly understood. Invasive foundation species can significantly alter their new environments to resemble their native ecosystems, allowing other exotic species to thrive and outcompete native flora and fauna. This transformation has led to significant environmental shifts, altering local biodiversity and ecological balances. This session invites presentations on the introduction, spread, and impact of non-native marine species, including monitoring methods and management strategies. The session will bring together experts to discuss immigrant species featuring contributions on monitoring changes through taxonomic surveys and eDNA studies, and the role of computer models in managing future marine bioinvasions. |
| 24 | Marin Biodiversitet | DTU (Martin Lindegren, Karen Timmerman, Einar Eg Nielsen, David Lusseau, Jon Svendsen, Patrizio Mariani, Christian Riisager Simonsen) + DHI (Lars O. Mortensen, Anders Chr. Erichsen; Verena Schrameyer; Mikkel Høegh Bojesen; Silvia Huber; Naomi A.M. Tuhuteru) |
Marine ecosystems are critical to planetary health by providing key functions and processes such as climate regulation and food provisioning. Yet, these ecosystems are experiencing a rapid and accelerating decline in biodiversity due to human pressures, including climate change, pollution, overexploitation and eutrophication. This biodiversity crisis threatens not only unique habitats and species - including those in Danish waters - but also essential services that support human societies. To address these challenges, this session invites contributions from researchers, industry, and environmental managers to explore cutting-edge methods and innovations in marine biodiversity science. The focus is on bridging science and management by highlighting tangible outcomes that enhance our ability to monitor and map biodiversity across spatial and temporal scales, and to use models that anticipate ecological responses. The goal is to deliver results that directly support industry and decision-makers in their efforts to preserve and restore marine biodiversity. Particular emphasis is placed on enabling science-based management and conservation actions, such as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Nature-Based Solutions (NBS), that promote biodiversity and ecosystem recovery. This session aims to synthesize knowledge across universities, industry, NGOs, managers, and other stakeholders, covering the full spectrum from monitoring and modelling to policy-relevant management advice. Objectives: 1. Highlight the importance of marine biodiversity and its role in ecosystem services Emphasize how biodiversity underpins vital ecosystem functions and services such as food provisioning, climate regulation, and habitat stability. 2. Discuss methodologies for biodiversity assessments across scales Explore approaches for biodiversity assessment across scales, including emerging tools for biodiversity monitoring (e.g., eDNA, imaging, remote sensing, autonomous systems) and model-based frameworks to assess biodiversity status and cumulative impacts. 3. Present case studies on successful protection and nature-based solutions Share examples of effective protection and Nature-Based Solutions informed by biodiversity assessments revealing key patterns, trends, and drivers of biodiversity. 4. Facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration Highlight cross-sector collaboration to develop integrated conservation strategies and demonstrate how science-based tools support decision-making (e.g., for MPAs and biodiversity management). Session Format: The session will include a series of presentations followed by a panel discussion. Each presentation will focus on a specific aspect of marine biodiversity, habitat assessments, or nature-based solutions. The panel discussion will provide an opportunity for participants to engage in a dialogue, share insights, and explore potential collaborations. We expect around 6-10 presentations in the session to cover the various aspects of marine biodiversity. Optionally, the panel discussion can be conducted in a separate event, where the discussion is broadened and include discussions from other topics. Target Audience: Researchers, conservationists, policymakers, and practitioners interested in marine biodiversity, habitat assessments, and nature-based solutions. Expected Outcomes: • Increased awareness of the importance of marine biodiversity and the need for effective biodiversity monitoring, assessments and management. • Identification of best practices and innovative approaches in nature-based solutions. • Strengthened networks and collaborations among stakeholders in marine conservation. |
| 25 | Coastal Fish and their Habitats in Denmark | Mikael van Deurs. DTU |
The condition of marine fish communities in Denmark is often portrayed as poor, accompanied by a variety of suggested pressures and causes. Yet, comprehensive research that captures the complexity of the issue - and the multiple perspectives from which it can be understood - remains limited. A major challenge is the lack of a national coastal fish monitoring program. Equally important is the absence of robust historical baselines that could help contextualize current trends. Moreover, detailed spatio-temporal maps of coastal habitats are scarce, as are studies that explicitly link habitat quality to fish productivity. This session invites contributions that address these critical knowledge gaps. We welcome studies that explore innovative approaches to habitat mapping and the monitoring of mobile marine fauna such as fish. What can existing data reveal about the status of fish communities in Danish fjords, coastal waters, and regions such as the Kattegat, Belt Seas, and the western Baltic? And how can experimental research deepen our understanding of the underlying causal mechanisms driving observed changes? |
| 26 |
The pelagic ecosystem: Environmental drivers and structuring processes shaping spatial and temporal dynamics across scales |
Anna B. Neuheimer (AU), Hans H. Jakobsen (AU) | Biodiversity and productivity in pelagic ecosystems are shaped by the spatial and temporal distribution of organisms, where size spans across seven orders of magnitude. Predicting interactions in the pelagic environment requires us to characterise how biological processes interact with and are shaped by the dynamic physical and chemical environment that ultimately governs the seasonal and spatial distributions. This session invites contributions covering aspects describing and explaining variation in pelagic marine ecosystems. These include characterisations of diversity (e.g. genetic, physiological, across and within species), how diversity varies in space and time, and the processes structuring this diversity (e.g. connectivity, predator-prey interactions, habitat suitability, etc.). Contributions covering any organism level (microbial, phytoplankton, zooplankton, fish, marine mammals) are welcome, and may focus on single species or dynamics across trophic levels. |
