On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, EKOGRID Oy hosted the 3rd LIFE Sedremed Conference in Helsinki, bringing together leading experts in marine sediment decontamination. This significant event aimed to advance the understanding and application of innovative in-situ solutions for the remediation of polluted marine sediments. The conference, part of the LIFE Sedremed project co-funded by the European Union, provided a platform for sharing knowledge, discussing challenges, and exploring the latest technological advancements.
Ville Wahlberg, from the Baltic Sea Action Group (BSAG), delivered a compelling talk about the critical state of the Baltic Sea, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions to address climate change and eutrophication. Aura Nousiainen, from the Finnish Environment Institute (Syke) and AFRY, discussed the lack of specific legislation regarding sediment contamination in Finland and the implications for environmental management. Clara Neuschütz, from the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, gave an overview of the environmental challenges facing Swedish aquatic systems and the measures being taken to address them. The conference underscored several critical points. The dire state of marine ecosystems necessitates the development of new, non-destructive remediation technologies.
The Baltic Sea’s shallow depth (average 54 meters) and low salinity make it particularly vulnerable to pollution and climate change impacts. Compared to the Mediterranean Sea (average depth 1500 meters) and the Atlantic Ocean (average depth 3500 meters), the Baltic Sea’s unique conditions exacerbate the effects of eutrophication and pollutant accumulation. The importance of collaboration between various stakeholders, including national institutions, research centers, technology providers, and civil society, was highlighted as essential for successful sediment remediation.
The SEDREMED project currently being implemented in Bagnoli Bay, Naples – a site severely affected by industrial pollution – is testing new technologies and hopes to contribute to finding sustainable solutions for critically polluted contexts. By integrating EKOGRID’s electrochemical technology with Idrabel’s bioremediation products, the project aims to create a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for sediment remediation. This method seeks to reduce the necessity of dredging and improve the overall quality of the marine environment.
Sergio Balzano, from Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn in Naples, Italy, discussed the project’s progress in Bagnoli Bay, highlighting the severe pollution issues and the innovative bioremediation strategies being implemented. Edoardo Robortella Stacul, from Invitalia, presented updates on the area of Bagnoli-Coroglio, focusing on the environmental and economic development aspects.
Christian Gennaux’s presentation on Idrabel’s biofixation technique highlighted how fixing microorganisms on natural mineral supports can prolong their lifespan and improve degradation efficiency also within sediments.
Heinrich Eisenmann discussed advanced monitoring tools that are essential for assessing the efficiency of remediation measures. These tools include isotope and microbial analysis, which help in understanding the natural degradation processes and the impact of remediation technologies.
The success of the conference would not have been possible without the invaluable contributions of the speakers and the efforts of Raffaele Vaccaro CEO of Nisida Environment, who organized the event. The SEDREMED team extends its gratitude to all participants for their excellent presentations and valuable comments.