A scientific article by researchers Sofia Pereira, Mariana Godinho, and Paula Castro, from the Environmental Biotechnology and Resources group at the Centre for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry (CBQF) of the School of Biotechnology at the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, developed in collaboration with the Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR), was recently featured by the European Commission in the publication Science for Environment Policy (Issue 622).

The study assessed the potential of artificial floating islands as nature-based solutions to improve water quality and promote biodiversity. Conducted in Portugal, the research demonstrated that these structures, composed of cork platforms with native plants, act as refuges for aquatic life, providing habitat for various species of macroinvertebrates and beneficial microorganisms.

The results reinforce the role of these ecological solutions in restoring aquatic ecosystems and promoting environmental sustainability, aligning with the goals of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the European Green Deal.

The article can be accessed in Issue 622 of Science for Environment Policy here.