Resipol consortium update in French Polynesia

On Wednesday, the Resipol consortium presented an update on its projects in French Polynesia during an event in Vairao. The meeting took place alongside the Ifremer Tour de France, a series of discussions held in locations where the Ifremer institute operates, aiming to connect scientific research with public policy and community needs. François Houllier, Ifremer's chief executive officer, attended the event, which followed a meeting at the University of French Polynesia earlier in the week.

Resipol consortium's structure and focus

The Resipol consortium was established in 2019 by several research institutions, including the University of French Polynesia, Ifremer, and the Louis-Malardé Institute, as well as the University of California-Berkeley. It includes numerous partners and has the French Polynesia territory and the French state as official members. The consortium focuses on collaborative projects that address environmental and societal challenges, such as improving science-society dialogue and studying the impacts of marine heatwaves.

Collaboration with local stakeholders

Guillaume Mitta, director of the Joint Research Unit Health and Services of Polynesian Ecosystems, emphasized that the projects involve direct collaboration with local stakeholders, including government services, associations, and citizens. The aim is to co-develop solutions that address the functioning of ecosystems and support sustainable daily life and economic activities. For example, regulated fishing areas are being paired with aquaculture initiatives to maintain ecological balance.

Ifremer's role in the consortium

François Houllier, CEO of Ifremer, explained that the consortium brings together universities and research institutions in French Polynesia to work on ambitious projects together. He highlighted the importance of combining expertise in marine and terrestrial research, noting that land-based activities have significant impacts on the ocean environment. This collaboration allows for a more comprehensive and integrated approach to research and policy-making.

Research priorities in French Polynesia

Current research focuses on climate change and food security, with projects like MaHeWa examining the effects of marine heatwaves and proposing adaptation strategies. Aquaculture initiatives are also central, aiming to enhance food sovereignty by bringing together various stakeholders to develop and fund sustainable practices. These efforts are part of larger research programs such as the Ocean and Climate priority program.

Future events and reporting sessions

The Ifremer Tour de France includes meetings with local officials and partners to discuss ocean-related issues. Upcoming events include two reporting sessions by the end of November, one at the Maritime Economy Conference and another in Paris with the Minister of the Sea and Fisheries, Catherine Chabaud. Additionally, a regional report on deep-sea governance will be presented this Thursday by the Institute of Research for Development (IRD).