The CHEM-WET project aims to study the impact of chemical pollution on wetland conservation and biodiversity, with a special focus on waterbird populations in Finnish wetlands. The research will investigate the occurrence and effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and metalloids, and their bioaccumulation in the wetland food web. The study will cover natural, restored and constructed wetlands, with a holistic approach considering other important ecosystem stressors such as browning – a process associated with elevated dissolved organic matter (DOM) – and its role in altering the bioavailability of pollutants. By assessing the health of waterbirds, a key bio-indicator of ecosystem integrity, the project will generate valuable information for effective wetland restoration and biodiversity conservation strategies, with the ultimate goal of mitigating the impact of chemical pollution on wetlands biodiversity.
