TransformAR: safeguarding the Marceddì Lagoon – Pond of San Giovanni for a sustainable future

The enchanting coastal area of the Oristano Gulf in Sardinia, Italy, is a haven of wetlands and a biodiversity hotspot that demands protection and conservation efforts. Sprawling wetlands within this captivating region teem with biodiversity, providing a multitude of economic, social, and cultural benefits to the surrounding communities they embrace. One of them is the complex of three interconnected coastal lagoons: Corru S’Ittiri, San Giovanni, and Marceddì, which is a member of the MedWet Managers Network (see the member sheet here). 

The Stagno di Corru S’Ittiri, Stagni di San Giovanni e Marceddì, encompassing a total area of 2,610 hectares, is a collection of three interconnected coastal lagoons boasting diverse salinity levels. These lagoons, partially separated from the sea by a dune system, are adorned with extensive reedbeds and halophytic plants. The abundance of fish fauna further enriches these sites, making them ecologically significant within the Mediterranean region.

The future of this ecological paradise is at stake, as significant parts of the area could be submerged by 2100 due to the pressing threats of climate change. In response to this imminent danger, urgent action and innovative solutions are required. The TransformAR project emerges as a transformative endeavor aimed at implementing essential adaptation measures to safeguard the Marceddì lagoon – pond of San Giovanni and its vital fish stocks. This article brings exciting news about the upcoming operational phase of the TransformAR project, which seeks to pave the way for transformative efforts. These efforts aim to contribute to the preservation of the Mediterranean’s rich biodiversity while fostering socio-economic growth in the local community.

TransformAR (Accelerating and upscaling transformational adaptation in Europe: demonstration of water-related innovation packages) is a transformative initiative that aims to develop and demonstrate innovative solutions for rapid and far-reaching adaptation to climate change. The project operates across six demonstrator sites in Europe, including Oristano, Italy.

The TransformAR project focuses on three main actions to protect the Marceddì lagoon – pond of San Giovanni ecosystem and its valuable fish stocks. Firstly, it employs an ‘intelligent’ opening mechanism that regulates water exchange between the lagoon and the outfall area. This adaptive solution ensures the preservation of the ecosystem while safeguarding fish stocks and lagoon products. Secondly, a system of sensors continuously monitors water quality, measuring important parameters such as pH, oxygen saturation, and temperature. This data-driven approach facilitates informed decision-making for effective environmental management. Lastly, a compact and efficient weather station is deployed to monitor weather conditions during rainfall events, enabling timely responses to potential risks.

In anticipation of the project’s most operational phase, two preparatory meetings were recently held, gathering key stakeholders and experts. On April 17, 2023, representatives from the MEDSEA Foundation, the CMCC Foundation, the Sardinia Region, and the municipality of Terralba convened at the headquarters of the Regional Department for the Defense of the Environment of Sardinia. The meeting focused on discussing future lagoon management scenarios, emphasizing the need to address climate change impacts. Specifically, the participants explored the installation of a sluice gate-hydraulic barrier system, regulated by sensors, to control water exchange. This meeting facilitated the exchange of data and project timelines, fostering collaboration among the stakeholders.

On April 21, a second meeting took place in the municipality of Terralba, bringing together local fishermen. Led by Councilor Maura Mura, representatives from Marceddì fishing cooperative consortium and Legacoop Sardegna engaged in fruitful discussions. The meeting aimed to understand the challenges faced by fishermen due to climate change and gather their perspectives on the project’s operational details. By involving the fishing community, the project ensures a holistic approach that incorporates their valuable insights and experiences.

The Marceddì lagoon – pond of San Giovanni is set to undergo a transformative phase with the initiation of the TransformAR project. This collaborative endeavor aims to safeguard the unique ecosystem and vital fish stocks of this remarkable region while promoting socio-economic development in the surrounding communities.

Through the implementation of nature-based solutions like the intelligent gate mechanism and advanced monitoring systems, the TransformAR project is at the forefront of innovative approaches to climate change adaptation in the Marceddì lagoon. By engaging local stakeholders and embracing inclusive processes, the project strives to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of this valuable wetland ecosystem.

As the TransformAR project progresses, the valuable insights and lessons learned in the Marceddì lagoon – pond of San Giovanni will contribute to the broader understanding of wetland management practices. This initiative serves as an inspiration for similar projects worldwide, demonstrating the potential for sustainable and resilient wetland management practices. Together, we can forge a path toward preserving our natural heritage, protecting biodiversity, and securing a more sustainable future for generations to come.

This initiative also serves as an inspiration for similar projects worldwide, demonstrating the potential for sustainable and resilient wetland management practices. Together, we can forge a path toward preserving our natural heritage, protecting biodiversity, and securing a more sustainable future for generations to come.