HERMES (Hotspot Ecosystems Research at the Margin of European Seas) is a major international and interdisciplinary research project on Europe’s deep seas, funded by the EC’s Sixth Framework Programme for Research.
HERMES provides new insights into the biodiversity, structure, functions and dynamics of ecosystems along Europe’s deep-ocean margin. It represents the first major attempt to understand European deep-water ecosystems and their natural environment in an integrated way (geosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and pan-European range). Most of Europe’s deep ocean frontier lies within Europe’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and has considerable potential for the exploitation of biological, energy and mineral resources. However, any development of these resources must be carried out in an ecologically sustainable manner. HERMES aims to contribute to the development of concepts and strategies for the conservation of ecosystems and the sustainable use of offshore marine resources, while taking into account the negative impact of human activities.
Median is a partner in HERMES and is responsible for the science-policy interfaces of the project. Median also contributes to the socio-economic research work.
Sybille van den Hove is chairing the HERMES Steering Committee.
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