DiverSea Project is designed to enhance existing marine mapping and monitoring systems, offering decision-makers and coastal ecosystem researchers new and improved tools. To achieve this goal, the project combines research, development, and metadata analysis with strong efforts in knowledge dissemination, ocean literacy, and the advancement of citizen science initiatives.
Coordinated by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), DiverSea brings together an international consortium of 19 partners, including universities, research institutes, private companies, and civil society organizations. The project is funded under the Horizon Europe Programme.
As part of this consortium, Mediterranean Conservation Society (Akdeniz Koruma Derneği - AKD) supports the expansion of citizen science applications along the Turkish coastline. The organization collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders—public institutions, NGOs, and universities—to integrate citizen science into broader project activities. In addition, Akdeniz Koruma Derneği works closely with the Dokuz Eylül University Institute of Marine Sciences and Technology, conducting fieldwork, and also contributes to data analysis in Türkiye.
Core Objectives of the DiverSea Project
Innovative Recognition Approaches: DiverSea introduces “DNA-marks,” a novel DNA-based identification method that leverages cost-effective genomic data to monitor marine environments and document species’ genetic diversity.
Integrated Molecular Techniques: By combining modern molecular techniques with tools such as satellite remote sensing, DiverSea maps marine habitats and provides a holistic assessment of key biodiversity data.
Data Processing and Analysis: The project integrates biological, physical, and biogeochemical data through an AI-driven machine learning architecture to predict spatial and temporal variations in marine biodiversity.
Dissemination of Scientific Findings: DiverSea strengthens science-policy communication through an interactive platform—the Biodiversity Services Dashboard—which presents complex scientific insights in an accessible way for decision-makers, stakeholders, and the public, supporting environmental protection efforts.
Citizen Science Integration: The project aims to support, coordinate, and elevate citizen science efforts through:
General guidance: Providing overarching guidance for fieldwork and monitoring platforms to enhance awareness of environmental threats and strengthen data collection.
Comprehensive guidelines: Developing a standard framework and detailed instructions for citizen science activities.
Intergenerational collaboration: Organising collaboration forums that bring together communities, civil society, and institutions to foster dialogue and cooperation for coastal conservation.
Building connections: Engaging with independent monitoring organizations to ensure data accuracy, reliability, and effective interpretation of citizen science findings.
Diverse initiatives: Implementing citizen science programs such as Sailing for Science (S4S) and Divers for Science.
Collaborative fieldwork: Working with fishing vessels and local communities to enhance citizen science contributions.
Capacity building: Offering experiential learning and capacity-building activities, including a gamified learning program for schools and online learning platforms.
Through these coordinated efforts, DiverSea aims to deepen public understanding of environmental challenges, strengthen data-driven action, and foster meaningful community participation in conservation processes.
Arranging cross-generational collaborative forums involving civil movements and other entities can foster dialogue and cooperation in addressing the preservation of coastal environments and the conservation of biodiversity. These forums should emphasize the crucial connection between biodiversity and human well-being, encouraging participants to take an active role in environmental protection efforts.
Establishing connections with independent monitoring institutions is crucial to ensure data accuracy and reliability. These connections would facilitate data sharing and quality assurance actions, enabling effective collaboration and analysis of citizen science findings.
Implementing citizen science initiatives, such as Sailing for Science (S4S) and Divers for Science, would provide diverse opportunities for participation. Collaborating with fishery vessels and engaging individuals in hands-on fieldwork can further enhance the impact of citizen science initiatives. Conducting capacity-building and experiential educational activities, including a gamification program for schools and online learning platforms, would promote citizen science and environmental awareness among youth and broader communities.
By taking these actions, the promotion and coordination of citizen science initiatives can be maximized, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of environmental issues and fostering active engagement in their resolution.
You can access the factsheet below, which provides an overview of the scope, key objectives, field activities, and consortium structure of the DiverSea project. This document has been prepared for those who wish to explore the project’s scientific approach and its implementation across Europe at a glance.
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