Estuarine & Delta Systems
The NIOZ Department of Estuarine & Delta Systems (EDS) focuses on understanding the complex interactions between organisms and their physical and chemical environment in estuaries and deltas. While based in Yerseke, on the Eastern Scheldt, we also work on these habitats worldwide. Our aim is producing an integrated understanding of the functioning of estuarine and delta systems, in the context of natural and human-induced environmental changes, while providing the knowledge needed to utilise these systems more sustainably and to restore them.
Estuarine and delta systems are vital as they support rich biodiversity, serve as critical nursery areas for marine life, and provide natural buffers against coastal flooding and erosion. At the same time, they are centres of human activity, from industry to shipping, and tourism to fisheries and aquaculture. These systems contribute to water quality, food production, and the global carbon cycle, while large populations lie in very close proximity.Â
In our department we aim to increase our fundamental understanding of the role these natural systems play, how they can be sustainably utilised, and to provide solutions to their restoration. To achieve these many goals we study their biology and ecological importance, as well as their interactions with the physical and chemical world.
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