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Project Code [2017-NC-PhD-2]
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Project title
Redefining waste as a resource when increasing marine food production
Primary Funding Agency
Irish Research Council
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
Environmental Protection Agency
Lead Organisation
University of Dublin, Trinity College (TCD)
Lead Applicant
Jennifer Murphy
Project Abstract
Approximately 90% of nitrogen fertilizer applied on land to guarantee high harvest yields enters the environment as waste, polluting water bodies and affecting the ecosystem services they provide. Hence we face a dilemma: while nitrogen deficiency leads to less food security, excess affects ecosystem services upon which food security depends. In Ireland, increasing food production as predicated by the Food Harvest 2020 strategy will likely result in excess nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) accumulating in coastal marine ecosystems. This threatens ecosystem services, upon which for example aquaculture relies, hence negatively feeding back into the economy. However, potential exists for excess nutrients to become a resource in sustainably increased production through aquaculture. Aquacultured organisms benefit from excess nutrients in coastal systems. Cultivation of a carefully selected combinations of species (polyculture) is already used to recycle excess nutrients in intensive aquaculture, with the added benefit of higher yields. This study will determine the optimal geospatial pattern of polyculture to minimise environmental impacts of increased nutrient input hence maximizing sustainability of natural capita
Grant Approved
�96,000.00
Research Hub
Natural Environment
Research Theme
Natural capital and ecosystem services including soils and biodiversity
Initial Projected Completion Date
30/09/2020