MedCities joined the ANERIS Annual Meeting held on 26-27 November 2024 in Seville. The event convened 25 partners from 13 countries to advance collaboration on operational marine biodiversity (OMB) products and monitoring technologies and to review progress, refine the roadmap for the project’s conclusion in 2026, and ensure its long-term legacy. MedCities’ role centred on integrating citizen science, notably through the Minka platform, which involves coastal cities in biodiversity monitoring.

Day 1: Presentations and Co-Design Workshops

The first day featured a range of presentations on the project’s progress and its 11 innovative technologies. These included tools for genomic analysis, advanced imaging, bio-optics, and participatory approaches. Each technology was contextualised through its application in specific case studies, emphasising practical outcomes for ecosystem monitoring.

The Co-Design Workshop enabled participants to collaboratively shape OMB products tailored to diverse marine contexts. MedCities contributed to the Case Study 3 focused on Minka’s role in encouraging public participation and linking citizen science data with professional research efforts.

Day 2: Strategic Discussions and Roadmaps

The second day focused on cross-cutting themes, including training, infrastructure, communication, and the long-term exploitation of OMB products. Working groups developed implementation roadmaps for each case study, addressing both technical and ecological challenges.

A dedicated session explored synergies between ANERIS and other European initiatives, such as the iMagine project. These discussions emphasised the importance of integrating ANERIS technologies with wider research networks to enhance their utility and impact.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Collaboration and Future Opportunities

The meeting laid the groundwork for the project’s second phase, focusing on finalising OMB products, integrating technologies into case studies, and addressing remaining challenges. MedCities’ advocacy for citizen science ensures that coastal cities will remain integral to the project’s goals, contributing valuable data and local knowledge.

Looking ahead, the ANERIS project will continue to explore new avenues for collaboration, including potential joint applications for future European Commission funding opportunities, ensuring the continued success of its mission to protect and monitor marine ecosystems across Europe.