Vanesa Romero and Víctor Hernando Morales lead these projects, focused on the control of pollutants and the analysis of the performance of the Moaña WWTP
The aid program promoted by the University of Vigo and the Pontevedra Provincial Council allows this year the launch of two research projects by young researchers from the Marine Research Center of the University of Vigo (CIM) aimed at improving the province’s environment.
Contaminant control
One of the funded projects will be Aquasense, led by researcher Vanesa Romero, from the Analytical and Environmental Chemistry group, which proposes the development of sustainable and portable analytical methodologies using cellulose substrates for the detection of pollutants in natural waters. In this case, miniaturization is addressed as an alternative to conventional techniques, reducing costs, waste and complexity. The research aligns green chemistry with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 6 and 12), promoting access to environmental monitoring through accessible, efficient and adaptable technologies to contexts with limited resources.
Analysis of the performance of the Moaña WWTP
In the case of Víctor Hernando Morales, a researcher in the Animal Ecology Group of the CIM, his project evaluates the presence and typology of macro and microplastics in the Wastewater Treatment Plant, EDAR, of Moaña during two contrasting periods, of high and low tourist pressure, analyzing the different stages of treatment and their elimination efficiency.
Likewise, the bioremediation capacity of the trimming waste will be explored through vermicomposting with local organic waste (vineyard bagasse). In parallel, an educational action on plastic pollution will be developed, with activities in schools and transfer to local agents.
The CIM holds the CIGUS certification from the Regional Government of Galicia, which attests to the quality and impact of its research, and its activities are co-financed by the European Union through the 2021–2027 FEDER Program.
