Following the success of ATC4, a workshop was organised for ESRs from Work Packages (WP) 4 and 5. The aim of this workshop was to outline plans for deliverables D4.3 and D5.3 and continue developing the PRORSK case studies, demonstrating how we may link endpoints measured at the sub-organismal level to effects on ecosystem functions and associated ecosystem services in relation to a recreational fishery and crop production.
Following their arrival in Sheffield on Sunday 25 September, ESRs took a trip to the nearby Peak District for a brisk walk and a field visit to see recreational fishery in a river and crop production (see video). The hike was followed by a well-earned trip to a traditional fish and chip shop and a classic British pub in the village of Hathersage.
On Day 1 of the workshop, ESRs set about drafting their deliverables, D4.3 Tools for assessing the chemical impact on service-providing units and ecosystem functions providing ecosystem services, and D5.3 Tools for assessing ecosystem service delivery effects at different temporal and spatial scales. After a few hours of brainstorming, feedback, more brainstorming, and more feedback, ESRs made the most of their time together and were able to set out a road map to completing the deliverables by the Autumn.
The day was topped off with a meal in the formerly industrial district, now turned into a vibrant social quarter of Sheffield, Kelham Island. This was a great opportunity for ESRs to debrief from the busy day and unwind.
Day 2 was focused on developing the case studies that ESRs initially outlined in the previous ATCs in Copenhagen (ATC4) and Brno (ATC3). The aim was to map how changes in service-providing units (SPUs) could result in changes in the delivery of ecosystem services in a recreational fishery and for the delivery of sustainable crop production in a potato/rapeseed rotation. The ultimate goal of the case studies is to create a guidance document to provide a holistic perspective of chemical risk assessment for regulators and/or decision-makers.
A fruitful few days in Sheffield. Very much looking forward to ATC 5 in the New Year!
Our ESR Chander Kant Negi spend his two months secondment at Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Oslo in May and June 2023. He focused there on toxicogenomic assays. About his experiences, you can read in this report.
We wish you HAPPY NEW YEAR 2024! May it bring you health, love and ever more success in your life.
