The Panarea NatLab is located in the Panarea islands (Aeolian archipelago, Italy), whose CO2 vents represents the largest field of shallow hydrothermal systems of the whole Mediterranean Sea and is considered a unique natural laboratory to study various aspects related to CO2 storage (e.g. natural processes, cross-calibration and test of innovative techniques to monitor CO2 leakages, definition of experimental protocols to study the impacts related to seabed CO2 leakage on living communities and ecosystem/habitat).
This 5th edition of the School had 35 applications from all over the world, but due to restrictions of the Covid-19 and logistical constraints, we selected only 8 participants. They were all PhDs or post-docs, coming from Italy, France, Scotland, Turkey and Brunei. The activities consisted of 5 scientific dives, 10 hours of multidisciplinary theoretical lectures, and 4 practical sessions.
Participants, supported by Research Institute and University experts and professional divers, had the unique possibility to explore and investigate the chemical, biological and geological characteristics of the Panarea natural acidified laboratory, combining a strong scientific preparation with extensive practical experience of gathering underwater samples and data.
Moreover, this year the school benefited of new scientific laboratory and field instrumentation that is highly innovative and allows multidisciplinary studies in the field of physical, chemical, biological and geological sciences.
Indeed, thanks to the project IPANEMA (Implementation of the Natural laboratory ECCSEL of Panarea and the Marine observatory) funded by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (PON - National Operative Programme – Research and Innovation 2014-2020) and by the European Commission through the "European Regional Development Fund" the ECCSEL NatLab Italy of Panarea is been implemented with the aim of upgrading this facility of the ECCSEL ERIC Infrastructure.
All together.
Bottaro Crater - measuring algal phenology on 25x25 cm quadrats. Note in situ pCO2 sensor on the right.
CO2 emissions in Campo 21 site.
During the lessons.
Gas sampling in Black point site.
pH analysis.
Water collection with Niskin bottles.