The S2S-FUTURE project has achieved notable milestones in scientific research, training, and dissemination. The project was centred on understanding Source-to-Sink (S2S) systems by modelling sediment dynamics influenced by tectonic and climatic forces. The work was carried out through eight interlinked work packages, with contributions from multiple academic institutions, industry partners, and researchers. The efforts culminated in substantial advances in scientific knowledge, training of ESRs, and establishing a strong foundation for future collaborations and applications.
The research conducted by Early Stage Researchers (ESRs) has been highly innovative in the prediction of mineral resources related to weathering (laterites, but also calcretes) through the development of numerical modelling coupling weathering processes, geomorphology and hydrology (ESR14) or on the prediction of grain size in alluvial reservoirs (ESR15) with the merge of two cultures of numerical modelling (GFZ-Potsdam and Imperial College). For aggregates, ESR6 and ESR12, through the study of the Meuse terraces or a modern fan in Switzerland, develop new concepts on the role of the topography or on the effect of climate changes, on sediment textures. At another time-scale, predictions are the targets of ESR1, ESR2, ESR3, ESR9, with preliminary promising results (ESR 1 and 3) of the effect of mantle-related uplift on the evolution of S2S systems and the location and petrology of reservoirs.
All the ESRs used numerical models in their research work and the WP 4 “MODELS – Developing generic S2S models inspired by nature” was a transverse WP enhancing quantitative predictive modelling approaches for all the ESRs. All the ESRs, through the learning of the surface processes numerical model FastScape developed by J. Braun during the first week of the training event “Dragonstone”, now share a common knowledge on models. This has helped some of them in the implementation on new modules of FastScape (e.g. ESR1 for integrating escarpment constrains or ESR5 and ESR10 for simulating the amount of solutes due to chemical erosion).
The project also prioritized training and development, with 15 ESRs trained in multidisciplinary techniques and professional skills. Through the organization of comprehensive summer schools such as “Dragonstone,” “Factory,” and “Inside Africa,” ESRs gained field experience in locations like Spain, Norway, Switzerland, and Namibia. Workshops on seismic interpretation, sediment modeling, and grant writing prepared them for diverse careers in academia and industry.
Dissemination and networking were integral to the project’s success. ESRs actively presented their findings at international conferences such as the European Geosciences Union (EGU) General Assembly, contributing to global discourse on S2S systems. Their research was published in high-impact journals, covering topics such as sediment flux analysis, climate impacts, and human interactions with sedimentary systems. The project also established collaborations across academia and industry, fostering a vibrant research network. A final conference showcased the results to stakeholders and the broader scientific community, creating opportunities for future initiatives.
