The University of Siena (UNISI) has officially begun its field research for the MIRAMAR project in the wetlands of San Rossore National Park, one of Tuscany’s most valuable and fragile natural areas. The team has started investigating how multiple stressors are affecting these ecosystems, marking a significant step forward in MIRAMAR’s mission to understand and mitigate cumulative impacts across the Mediterranean.
the wetlands of San Rossore National Park
The San Rossore wetlands, known for their rich biodiversity, provide an ideal natural laboratory for assessing pressures such as pollution, habitat alteration, climate-related changes and human activities. By analysing how these stressors interact, UNISI researchers aim to generate data that will inform restoration strategies and support long-term conservation efforts.
According to the research team, studying these dynamics is essential to protect the park’s unique species and ecological functions. The wetlands play a crucial role in regulating water cycles, maintaining habitat connectivity and serving as refuge for numerous bird, plant and aquatic species.
The work in San Rossore forms part of MIRAMAR’s broader objective: creating tools and methodologies to monitor cumulative impacts throughout the Mediterranean region and guide more effective mitigation and restoration policies.
As field activities continue in the coming months, the insights gathered in Tuscany will contribute to a deeper understanding of Mediterranean wetland resilience—an important milestone for both MIRAMAR and the wider Natural Heritage Mission.
“The wetlands play a crucial role in regulating water cycles, maintaining habitat connectivity and serving as refuge for numerous bird, plant and aquatic species”
