Natural and Human-Induced Pressures on Biodiversity: Impacts and Assessment
Research Theme Summary
This Research Theme aims to understand and protect life in our waterways from the growing threat of modern pollutants. In our changing climate, global biodiversity faces a “double hit”: toxic chemicals from wastewater treatment plants, industry and agriculture, combined with natural stressors like droughts and floods.
Researchers will study how these “Chemicals of Emerging Concern” interact with environmental shifts to harm aquatic biodiversity. By developing advanced testing tools and computer models, the team seeks to create better monitoring systems. Ultimately, this work provides the vital data needed to safeguard our water quality and ensure a healthier environment for both nature and society.
PIs
Gerdhard Jessen, Universidad de Concepción
Pedro Inostroza, University of Gothenburg
Participants
Aníbal Pauchard, University of Concepcion
Constanza Cabello, Universidad de Chile
Francesca Molinari, University of Gothenburg
Julio Hasbún, Universidad Católica
Luis Mundaca, Lund University
Nauras Daraghmeh, University of Gothenburg
Nicolai Verbücheln, University of Gothenburg
Outcomes
This workshop fostered a productive exchange between Chilean and Swedish scientists across various career stages, centering on the complex challenges of assessing chemical pollution’s impact on global biodiversity. By using Chile and Sweden as primary case studies, the group gained critical insights into how human activities specifically degrade fjord ecosystems in both hemispheres.
A significant highlight was the visit to the Marine Organic Geochemistry Lab, where Prof. Silvio Pantoja provided expert guidance on the persistent challenges of organic contaminants within Chilean coastal sediments. This hands-on technical immersion, combined with collaborative brainstorming, resulted in a concrete synthesis of our findings. Consequently, the team has committed to co-authoring a scientific manuscript in 2026 titled “Rethinking the impact of the global pulp industry: Biodiversity perspectives from Chile and Sweden.” This work will bridge regional data to offer a global perspective on industrial impacts and environmental recovery.