How is ocean biodiversity connected to human wellbeing and climate resilience? This question took centre stage at a mini-conference for 360 11th-grade students during Norway’s national “Research Days” week in September.
Held in Tromsø, the event aimed to spark curiosity and engagement with science through direct interaction with researchers. Representing the POMP project, scientists Camilla Svensen and Bodil Bluhm from UiT (The Arctic University of Norway) participated in a dynamic “speed-dating with researchers” session—giving students hands-on experience with living planktonic and benthic organisms, and an open dialogue on the role of ocean biodiversity in supporting life on Earth.
“Biodiversity isn’t just about numbers of species—it underpins essential processes in ecosystems and the services they provide, including climate regulation,” explained Bluhm. The activity focused on introducing students to the hidden but vital roles of polar marine life, from carbon cycling to food web stability, and how biodiversity loss could affect ecosystems and people alike.
The topics discussed link directly to POMP’s research, particularly biodiversity patterns and their integration into climate policy and management strategies. By making this science accessible and relevant to young audiences, the team hopes to inspire the next generation to value and protect polar ecosystems.
