DOORS addressed the harmonisation of data and methods used for all research methods needed to implement environmental policies; It identified knowledge gaps and needs and created a Harmonisation Manual on data collection, storage and handling, crucial for the holistic aspect of marine monitoring in Black Sea.
The SoS gave access to a complexity of data (in situ, EO, models) from multiple sources. Data from DOORS cruises and past campaigns were used for its development, giving access to comprehensive and novel data sets for the Black Sea. SoS supported new products such as algorithms for reliable satellite water quality data, identification of microplastic distribution in surface waters, and coastal sediment dynamics.
DOORS brought together international scientists for fieldwork and laboratory research. Three international research cruises collected thousands of biological, gas, sediment and water samples. Deployment of a glider and lab-on-chip sensors were major technological advances in marine monitoring. Key results were: new understanding of marine methane and greenhouse gas release; first-of-their-kind regional databases of underwater cultural heritage and gas hydrates; evidence linking Earth’s solid tides to gas release from seafloor sediments; insights into microplastic pollution, sediment properties, and changes in water mass due to climate change; and identification of microbial communities critical to carbon cycling and ecosystem health.
DOORS characterised the state of the Black Sea through model implementation. Hydrodynamic models of the major rivers were coupled with the one for the Black Sea to form the first complex numerical model chains for the entire sea and hydrographic basins. This enabled understanding and quantifying algal blooms, understanding dispersion and concentration of microplastics, quantifying the effects of extreme storms and major floods. These model chains on the main Black Sea threats are also prototypes of operative model chains used with climate change scenarios to populate the SoS climate component. Specialised training was also supported.
The BGA supported entrepreneurs through a joint coalition to attract Blue Economy startups. Training improved their ideas, a matchmaking platform connected startups with investors, and a Blue Career Guide was developed. The Special Interest Group brought together investors and the most promising startups, resulting in the launch of an investment portfolio. Biotechnology and wind energy were found to have potential for sustainable growth. Impacts of offshore wind energy production were identified with recommendations to researchers and governmental stakeholders.
DOORS developed an MSc course in Marine Activity Planning as a possible ERASMUS Mundus MSc Program. A Blue Economy focused Blended Intensive Programme engaged 45 international students from 20 counties, a proof-of-concept for high-impact, collaborative training. 19 online Life-Long Training courses translated DOORS research into accessible modules. A Training of Trainers programme equipped 35 educators from 7 countries to integrate DOORS material into their curricula. Mobilisation and Mutual Learning workshops built capacity and collaboration through hands-on SoS training. Regional engagement and community connection through 6 workshops in the Black Sea countries engaged 154 participants from research, industry and governance.
The stakeholder engagement at local, regional, national, and pan-European levels was achieved and included workshops, 2 major international stakeholder conferences and a high-level event in the European Parliament.
Dissemination and communication activities included: newsletters, brochures, videos on DOORS YouTube channel; citizen science exercises; final project movie; “Black Sea during Winter” photo competition; and “one video – one question” exercise for younger generations.
