Sentinels of the Sea has been a project led by the University of Murcia to improve awareness of the effects of climate change on marine biodiversity, through participatory activities with experts from the artisanal fishing sector and diving.

The University of Murcia has completed the project “Sentinels of the Sea: citizen science for monitoring the effects of climate change on marine biodiversity” which has had the support of the Biodiversity Foundation of the Ministry for Ecological Transition through its 2017 call for grants. The objective has been to implement measures to adapt to the effects of climate change in the artisanal fishing and diving sector dependent on the marine RN 2000: Marine Reserves of Fishing Interest of Cabo de Palos-Islas Hormigas, Cabo Tiñoso and Cabo de Gata-Níjar and in Natura 2000 Network areas in southeastern Spain.

13 actions have been carried out, including the preparation of a methodological guide to facilitate the identification and measurement of the climate change indicators proposed for the area. This guide has included a protocol for monitoring the indicator species as well as proposals for minimizing the impacts of the activities. 5 theoretical-practical courses have been held with the diving sector and the artisanal fishing that have served to increase the knowledge of both participants and researchers about the problems associated with climate change.

On the other hand, some young people have increased their knowledge about the biodiversity of marine protected areas and the effects of climate change. In addition, through scientific diving techniques they participated in the monitoring of marine communities.

As an innovative element, the project has developed and distributed to 20 entities the seal of good practices “I adapt to Climate Change, and you?”.