Their dedicated study of estuaries and coasts created the opportunity for Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) researchers Aadila Omarjee and Anisha Velayudan to attend the 60th meeting of the Estuarine & Coastal Sciences Association (ECSA) from 2 to 5 September 2024 in Hangzhou, China.

Held under the theme, “Implementing Science-Based Solutions and Strategies for Coastal Resilience”, the duo from the CSIR’s Coastal Systems and Earth Observation Research Group showcased the recent research findings from their PhDs indicating that the increasing pressure that South African coastal zones and ecosystems are facing stem from anthropogenic factors.

Omarjee shared the findings of a study based on the daily influence of eutrophication on pH in aquatic ecosystems. Here, laboratory experiments were conducted to determine the influence of aquatic biomass on pH variability during diurnal intervals.

Velayudan’s talk, titled, “Assessing the impacts of land-based discharges on the coastal environment in eThekwini, South Africa”, explored the first investigation on the toxic effects of non-point source discharges on coastal water quality in South Africa, highlighting the risk that deteriorating wastewater infrastructure poses to the ecological health of coastal environments.

Their talks were well received by the audience as they drew attention to the importance of coastal systems and their conditions in eThekwini for the international audience. “This opportunity empowers us to advance our careers as researchers while actively contributing to the growth of our research group’s R&D efforts. Presenting at this conference affords an invaluable chance to connect with experts in estuarine and coastal research, creating collaborations and expanding our professional network. It not only fosters our professional development but also provides a clear path for progression within the CSIR,” Velayudan says.

With a focus on coastal resilience and management, ECSA aims to foster scientific collaboration, knowledge exchange between science and society, and the development of practical strategies and solutions.

The impressive conference programme had several keynote lectures addressing pertinent issues, while presentation talks were delivered with themes such as biogeochemistry, ecology, physical dynamics and human dimension. The programme also included a multitude of oral and poster presentations.

Omarjee and Velayudan seized the opportunity to delve into the multidisciplinary aspects of coastal resilience. “The conference was eye-opening to the level of research China is doing. Even as a PhD candidate, it inspires one to expand one’s research. I felt encouraged to enquire and ask more questions, especially about the future of coasts in relation to implementing science-based strategies that promote resilience and sustainability,” says Omarjee.

ECSA is a unique platform for researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and stakeholders to address collectively the challenges faced by coastal regions worldwide.

The few days spent in the beautiful and technologically advanced city of Hangzhou have left a favourable impression on them. “This was a deeply enriching experience. We had the opportunity to explore modern and ancient Chinese cultures and traditions, as well as experience what living in a modern megacity is like. We enjoyed a variety of authentic foods, each dish offering a taste of culinary heritage. We also got to cuddle with many cats,” Velayudan quips.