- Detta evenemang har redan ägt rum.
Results from beach wrack samplings
In this webinar from the ECONUT project we will learn about the results of the beach wrack samplings made in the project. We will also meet the newly launched Danish/Swedish Coastal Network.
Daniela Glück, PhD student University of Rostock will share her
Insights from Beach Wrack Sampling along the Baltic Sea Coast
Beach wrack, a natural accumulation of macroalgae, seagrass and other organic matter on beaches, is often perceived as waste. However, beach wrack plays a vital role in coastal ecosystems by providing nutrients, supporting biodiversity and stabilizing sediments.
To assess the seasonal variability, beach wrack composition and amounts were analyzed across multiple locations along the Baltic Sea coast (e.g. Germany and Sweden). However, since this biomass cannot be left on various beaches in order to avoid limiting the region’s appeal to tourists, alternative uses must be found.
To investigate the potential of beach wrack as a growth substrate, we conducted a 12-week growth experiment with marram grass growing on beach wrack. The plant growth suggests that beach wrack can enhance nutrient supply for coastal vegetation and can strengthen dune vegetation.
Anaïs Richard, postdoc University of Southern Denmark will talk about
Climate impacts of beach wrack decomposition
Coastal vegetated areas inhabited by macrophytes (seagrasses or macroalgae) are defined as Blue Carbon ecosystems, acting as carbon sinks. However, beach wrack (BW), organic biomass from macrophyte, may release greenhouse gases (GHG) like CO2, CH4 and N2O during decomposition, limiting climate mitigation effect. This study aimed to evaluate the climate effect of BW by quantifying seasonal GHG emissions across Denmark, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, and Sweden. To do so, laboratory incubations were carried out with different BW and sand mixtures at varying temperatures. The study provides new insights into how BW decomposition may influence GHG fluxes and explores the potential benefits of recycling BW for climate-friendly applications such as soil improvement or coastal protection.
Ryan Metcalfe, National Coordinator for KIMO Denmark will share
Information about the newly launched Coastal Network
This network which bridges the border between Denmark and Sweden supports efforts to use beach wrack (biomass such as seaweed and eelgrass washed up on coasts) as a resource in Denmark and Sweden. The network brings together municipalities, researchers, and professionals with a shared focus on sustainable coastal management.
The Coastal Network is part of the cross-regional Interreg ÖKS project Power Bio and is facilitated by KIMO (Local Authorities’ International Environmental Organisation). It has been created to ensure that knowledge and experience can be shared and developed – also after the project ends in January 2026.
The webinar will be in English and is open for everyone.
