The project started on the 1st of January 2021 and the main achievement during the first reporting period was the selection of the Chair holder and the preparation of the internal process for the selection of the remaining team. Since then, BESIDE has made significant progress towards its objectives, building on the foundations established earlier. The team was consolidated with the recruitment of the ERA Chair associated researchers, including junior researchers, an assistant researcher, PhD students, and a science communication manager. This team has been integrated in CESAM, collaborating with its existing research groups and researchers from GOVCOPP. These efforts are strengthening CESAM’s capacity in the fields of Environmental Economics and Natural Resources (EENR).
The project has realigned its strategy with CESAM’s evolving priorities, considering the frameworks of Horizon Europe, the European Green Deal, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while aligning its research agenda with Portugal's Research and Innovation Strategy for Smart Specialisation (RIS3). A major accomplishment has been the creation of the BESIDE platform, which has facilitated synergies across ongoing and new projects, while promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. Capacity building has been a central focus, with tailored training programmes and summer schools designed to enhance the expertise of researchers and postgraduate students.
BESIDE has also contributed to research and innovation, advancing the European Research Area (ERA) priorities. The team has launched new projects and research services, secured substantial funding, and published numerous peer-reviewed articles, with additional publications in progress. These achievements highlight the project's commitment to producing impactful, high-quality research. International collaboration is part of the project’s strategy. BESIDE has strengthened CESAM’s international profile, opening opportunities for joint research, funding applications, and knowledge exchange. These efforts have been complemented by active dissemination activities, including the development of a website, newsletters, and social media platforms, as well as the publication of policy recommendations, organisation of workshops and conferences, and the production of academic articles. Stakeholder engagement is also contemplated. BESIDE has facilitated workshops and meetings with national and regional stakeholders, fostering collaboration across key sectors such as forestry and the oceans. Furthermore, the team has engaged with Co-Labs and international organisations to explore long-term partnerships and strengthen connections with European and global initiatives. These efforts aim to ensure the sustained impact and relevance of the project.
