Key Topics Covered

Understanding Biodiversity: Definitions, species estimates (~8.7M estimated vs. ~1.8M described).
Levels of Diversity: Genetic, Species, and Ecosystem diversity.
Ocean Ecosystem Services: Oxygen production (50%+ from oceans), carbon sequestration, food security, and livelihoods.
Artivism Concept: Blending art and activism for environmental awareness (e.g., Kiara Spanoli Gabardi’s “To Breathe or Not to Breathe”).

The Mediterranean Context: Represents 1% of world oceans but harbors 18% of known marine species (20% endemic species).
The “Feverish” Basin: Mediterranean warming at 20% faster than the global ocean average.
Key Phenomena & Ecosystem Impacts:
- Marine Heatwaves & Coral Bleaching: Impacts on Mediterranean corals and key habitats.
- Posidonia Oceanica (Underwater Forests): Slow growth rate (1 cm/yr), carbon sink capabilities, PH regulation, and nursery roles.
- Ocean Acidification: Impact of dissolved $CO_2$ on pH levels, shell formation, and marine skeletons.
- Vulnerable / Endangered Endemic Species: Mediterranean monk seal (“Fred”), loggerhead sea turtle, dusky grouper, red coral, seahorse.

Difference between Non-Indigenous/Alien Species vs. Invasive Species.
Impact of Suez Canal migration and climate warming on species distribution.
Case Studies: Lionfish (Pterois) rapid reproduction and voracity; Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus) outcompeting native species.

Case Study: Blue Eat / Mariscadoras: Converting an invasive species problem into a profitable, circular-economy food market (harvesting blue crabs, creating bio-plastics from shells, supporting local fisheries).
The Biodiversity Innovation Canvas:
1. Problem Definition (Selecting a biodiversity issue)
2. Purpose / Core Values
3. Product / Service Offering
4. Beneficiaries & Ecosystem Impact
5. Revenue Model & Financial Sustainability
6. Long-Term Impact Measurement & Metrics