The 16th Meeting on Biofouling, Benthic Ecology and Marine Biotechnology (XVI BIOINC) put a spotlight on the impact of human activity on marine ecosystems and highlighted innovative solutions for ocean conservation. The event was organized by the Rio de Janeiro-based Admiral Paulo Moreira Institute for Marine Studies (IEAPM), with support from OceanPact.
The meeting brought together researchers, experts and representatives from the public and private sectors earlier this month in Arraial do Cabo, Rio de Janeiro, for discussions and presentations that sought to share scientific knowledge and inspire more sustainable practices for the use of the sea.
Leonardo Barreira, OceanPact Tech’s technology director, moderated a panel called “In-Water Cleaning,” which addressed underwater cleaning methods for vessels and structures and their environmental implications.
“BIOINC provides us with a unique space for reflection on human impacts on marine ecosystems and the opportunity to share practical and innovative solutions. Being present and contributing to these dialogues reinforces our commitment to the sustainable development of the seas, combining science, technology and environmental responsibility,” Barreira said.
The panel also included Mario Tamburri, director of the Alliance for Coastal Technologies and the Marine Environmental Resource Center at the University of Maryland; Carlos Speglich of the Petrobras Research Center; Captain Cecília de Castro of the Brazilian Navy; and Alexandre Ferraz of Hemisfério/Deep Blue.
During a technical session, Nicole Monteiro, EnvironPact project coordinator, presented a study titled “Diversity of Benthic Communities on Rocky Shorelines in Ilha Grande Bay and Tamoios Marine Ecological Station.” The study, which compiled data from different points in the region, highlighted the importance of preserving its ecosystems, which are home to a wide variety of marine organisms and play an essential role in environmental balance and monitoring of ocean health.