ICRAM, an association of scientists that study Italy’s seas, monitors the health of the Mediterranean using oceanographic vessels. Its researchers intervene to repair the environment in cases of pollution or to restore beaches when the sea destroys them; they also work in marine reserves and provide quality control on fish farms.
ICRAM explores the abysses, studies tuna and swordfish migration patterns, shark routes, and the lives of Mediterranean dolphins and fin whales. Thanks to the Zegna Foundation, ICRAM launched a research project in collaboration with Padua University in 2006. Using Ranger, a catamaran belonging to Oceana, the Project was able to collect and analyze Mediterranean seaweed and coral and use fossil samples as indicators to reconstruct past environment and climate. By assessing the impact of the various factors at play, the research project yielded insights into climate and environmental change in the Mediterranean region and helped understand the role of humans in such processes.
