NEWS: Field Trip in Vlore Advances Coastal Habitat Monitoring and Blue Carbon Research

From 28 to 30 April 2026, took place the third field trip in Albania.

The main starting point of field activities were based at the Visitor Centre in Radhimë and extended across some of the most ecologically significant marine areas of southern Albania, including the coastal waters of Radhimë, the Karaburun Peninsula, and the marine surroundings of Sazan Island. These locations were selected for their rich meadows of Posidonia and their potential contribution to blue carbon storage, which refers to the capacity of marine ecosystems such as seagrass meadows and coastal habitats to capture and store carbon dioxide.

Throughout the three days, project partners, researchers, and technical experts worked closely together to carry out a series of coordinated field operations. Each day began with preparatory briefings and logistical organization at the Visitor Centre. Once on site, specialized diving teams conducted underwater missions that included the measurement of water parameters, the collection of biological and environmental samples, and detailed video recordings of marine habitats. These activities required careful coordination to ensure both scientific accuracy and safety, as well as strict adherence to environmental monitoring protocols.

After each diving session, the teams returned to the base to begin the equally important process of sub-sampling. The collected samples were stabilized, carefully stored in controlled conditions, and labeled according to standardized coding systems. At the same time, all relevant data was recorded in dedicated forms to ensure traceability and to support future laboratory analysis. This phase of the work is essential for transforming field observations into reliable scientific data that can inform environmental policies and sustainable management practices.

Beyond the technical work, the field trip also served as an important platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange among project partners. By working together in real field conditions, participants were able to share methodologies, align their approaches, and strengthen their collective capacity to monitor and protect coastal ecosystems. The hands-on experience provided valuable insights into both the opportunities and challenges associated with marine data collection and blue carbon assessment in the Adriatic-Ionian region.

The field visit concluded with a wrap-up session, during which participants reflected on the activities carried out in Vlore, discussed preliminary observations, and identified next steps for the project’s implementation.

BLUEQ is co-funded by the European Union under the INTERREG IPA ADRION Programme 2021–2027 and aims to strengthen scientific knowledge and practical tools for protecting coastal ecosystems and enhancing their role in climate change mitigation.