The field research focused on the ecosystems of mangrove forests, coral reefs and seagrass beds in the river delta and islands of the Mersing region in the South China Sea, as well as the landing sites of midwater and coastal fisheries.

With Malaysian scientists with whom we have also carried out joint research in Aegean areas with Aegean Explorer, we have been working together in recent years to exchange know-how and experience, based on a common concern and common goal to protect the seas and oceans from common threats that are intensifying year by year.

This cooperation is taking place in the framework of the Eco-Marine action under which the 4 new Marine Monitoring Labs in Malaysia and India have already started operating. The new laboratories, now operating under joint research protocols, aim, among other things, to monitor the effects of climate change, but also to assess the extent of plastic pollution, in these particularly important marine areas.

An update on this important action will follow.