Future Earth Coasts (FEC) Cyber-Coast Working Group successfully hosted a captivating webinar entitled “A CYBERnetic Perspective on COASTal Environments.” The event, held on October 20, brought together experts and enthusiasts to delve into the intricacies of coastal cybernetics.
The event showcased the efforts of FEC CYBER-COAST, a dedicated working group committed to exploring coastal environmental changes through the lens of cybernetics and ecological energetics. This forward-thinking approach revolves around comprehending the intricate interplay between the various components of coastal zones, including both natural and human systems.
During the webinar, experts from the CYBER-COAST working group presented their research concepts, shedding light on coastal dynamics through a cybernetic lens. It presented a diverse range of research, expanding our understanding of coastal dynamics. Dr. Jim van Belzen (Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research) explored the “Probabilistic Framework for Windows of Opportunity” and emphasized the role of short timeframes and temporal variability in organism establishment. Dr. Francesco Cozzoli (Italian National Research Council) delved into the “Thermodynamic Approach to Coastal Dynamics,” highlighting the significance of bioturbators in shaping coastal ecosystems. Dr. Xiaoyu Fang (State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research) analysed of “Hindcasting Ecosystem Functioning Change in an Anthropogenized Estuary” revealed human-induced impacts on ecosystem integrity. Ms. Amélie Lehuen (Université de Caen Normandie) discussed the roles of macrozoobenthic species in estuarine environments through a long-term evolution modeling approach. Ms. Gemma Smith (International Estuarine and Coastal Specialists Ltd, University of Hull) introduced “Holism in Marine Management” through the Integrated Systems Analysis approach. Collectively, these presentations enriched our insights into coastal dynamics, providing valuable knowledge for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in the field.
The discussion extended beyond the research presentations and also involved an exchange of perspectives between scientists and stakeholders. The discussion centered around the vital subject of promoting communication and collaboration among a diverse range of groups, encompassing researchers, policymakers, and individuals from various disciplines. The participants explored ways to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical decision-making, recognizing the necessity of effective cooperation to address complex coastal dynamics and environmental challenges. This comprehensive exchange of ideas emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the active involvement of stakeholders in the pursuit of sustainable coastal management and resilience.
The FEC CYBER-COAST webinar served as a dynamic platform for experts and enthusiasts to engage with cutting-edge research and innovative approaches to coastal dynamics. The diverse range of topics highlighted the complexity and importance of comprehending coastal environments in an ever-changing world. The event fostered a global community of knowledge-sharing and inquiry into the intriguing world of coastal cybernetics.
For those who missed this event, stay tuned for future FEC initiatives and webinars that promise to shed more light on the dynamic world of coastal environments and their sustainable management.