From April 22nd to 25th, 2024, the GES4SEAS project convened a workshop at the Thünen Institute in Bremerhaven, focused on tool testing and the exploration of tipping points in marine ecosystems. This workshop, attended by partners of the project, both onsite and online, marked a significant advancement in testing the GES4SEAS toolbox for ecosystem-based management. 

The sessions were rich with interactive discussions and hands-on activities, allowing participants to dive deep into the functionalities and applications of the toolbox version 1.1.1. The workshop facilitated a practical understanding of how to integrate and manipulate data sets, assess ecological tipping points, and effectively use the toolbox to analyse ecological data across different learning sites. 

Highlights included insightful presentations by experts such as Miquel Ortega and Heliana Teixeira, who shared their latest research on sardine and anchovy populations and biogeochemistry in deep-sea environments, respectively. These discussions reinforced the relevance of the toolbox in addressing complex marine biodiversity issues. 

A crucial point of the workshop was the emphasis on collaborative learning and problem-solving. Participants actively engaged in refining the toolbox’s features, providing feedback that will shape its future development. The workshop concluded with a synthesis of common issues and obstacles encountered by users, setting the stage for ongoing enhancements to ensure the toolbox meets the evolving needs of researchers and policymakers alike. 

The GES4SEAS project team extends heartfelt thank you to all participants and contributors who made this workshop a success. The insights gained are invaluable in our continued effort to foster sustainable marine governance and enhance our understanding of marine ecosystems’ dynamics.