Module 2. Ecosystem Services, Environmental monitoring, risk management and climate resilience

Short description

Module 3 analyses the strategic role of bivalve mollusc aquaculture in relation to the environment, with particular attention to the challenges posed by climate change.

The module introduces the concept of ecosystem services, illustrating their definition, the main typologies, and their recognition within EU policies, highlighting the environmental and economic value these services can generate.

The environmental impact of bivalve farming will also be explored in depth using analysis tools such as carbon footprint and life cycle assessment, highlighting the reasons why this form of aquaculture is considered among the most sustainable.

A central part of the module is dedicated to assessing the effects of climate change on bivalve production and analysing the main adaptation and mitigation strategies that can be adopted, including species selection and technological innovation.

Objectives of the module

• Ecosystem services: definition, typology and EU policy on the matter.
• Environmental impact of bivalve molluscs aquaculture: carbon Footprint analysis and Life Cycle Assessment.
• Assessment of the impact of climate change on bivalve production.
• Understanding the various farm-level strategies to adapt to and mitigate climate change, including species selection and technological innovations.

Learning outcomes

Participants will be able to understand the importance and value of the ecosystem services provided by bivalve farming: what they are, their effects on the environment, and the economic value they can have for the farmer.

The environmental impact of bivalve farming will also be analysed, listing the reasons why it is particularly low.

Finally, issues related to climate change will be addressed: students will be able to assess the impact of climate change on aquaculture production and implement adaptation strategies to counteract its effects.