A Platform for Science-Policy Dialogue

The workshop was designed to foster dialogue between science and stakeholders, promoting collaborative problem-solving across scales and sectors. It featured a series of impulse talks, a gallery walk with structured thematic discussions, and a closing plenary to reflect on key insights. Five short presentations set the stage for discussion:

Dr. David Kaiser (HEREON) presented findings on the biogeochemical impacts of the 2018 European heatwave and drought in the German Bight. Dr. Yoana Voynova (HEREON) explored long-term changes in the carbonate system of the Elbe Estuary, raising important questions about pollution recovery and future vulnerability to climate extremes. Kelli Johnson (HEREON) discussed integrating observations and models across the land-sea continuum in the FOCCUS project, highlighting challenges in aligning spatial and temporal scales. Dr. Johannes Pein (HEREON) presented coupled modelling work and nutrient reduction scenarios in the Elbe Estuary. Dr. Justus van Beusekom (HEREON) and the NAPSEA Consortium shared insights on eutrophication trends in the Wadden Sea, stressing the importance of a fully integrated land-river-sea perspective.

Discussions following the talks underscored the importance of engaging with the public and decision-makers, adapting to climate change-induced extremes, and setting realistic, system-specific ecological targets.

Gallery Walk: Co-Developing Solutions through Interactive Dialogue 

Participants rotated among four thematic groups to explore cross-cutting challenges and opportunities. The first topic focused on improving exchange between inland and coastal communities. Participants emphasized the importance of empowering trans-state and regional bodies to coordinate ecosystem-based approaches. The use of science-policy briefs tailored to specific audiences was identified as a key communication tool.

The second topic addressed enablers and barriers for FAIR data along the land-sea interface (LSI). Key enablers included open access, harmonised metadata, and integrated data portals.
Identified barriers included inconsistent funding, siloed data repositories, and limited interoperability.

The third topic explored how to better integrate observations and modelling. Participants stressed the need for co-designed models supported by FAIR, long-term observations. There was a strong call for transparency in model assumptions and better integration of users in the modelling process.

The fourth topic examined nutrient reduction in the LSI and whether current efforts are sufficient. While consensus suggested that progress is ongoing, ecological targets remain unmet. Discussions explored how to better define what “there” means, balancing ecological, economic, and social considerations. Participants also noted that the long-term legacy of nutrient pollution, regional variations, and climate change impacts complicate the path forward.

Key Takeaways

Stakeholder engagement emerged as a crucial component of successful environmental measures. Without strong public understanding and support, mitigation strategies face resistance. Effective science communication and co-creation processes were highlighted as key to building this support. Participants agreed that complex systems require flexible solutions. From legacy nutrients to climate extremes, adaptive approaches are necessary. One-size-fits-all solutions are not viable. There was consensus that data and models must evolve together. More robust, FAIR-aligned, and integrated observational systems are essential to support trustworthy and actionable modelling.

Finally, defining goals transparently was seen as essential. Ecological thresholds and success metrics must be grounded in science but adapted to real-world complexity and stakeholder needs.

This workshop reaffirmed the FOCCUS project’s commitment to enabling co-designed, cross-boundary data products and services that support sustainable coastal and marine management. It also highlighted the importance of initiatives like EMODnet and CMEMS in providing the open data infrastructure needed to make this vision a reality.

The workshop was supported by active participation from representatives of the FOCCUS, LandSeaLot, and NAPSEA projects and stakeholders from HEREON, DELTARES, BSH, Fresh Thoughts, FGG Elbe, HPA, NLWKN, LfU SH, and the Wadden Sea Secretariat.