The multidisciplinary project investigates environmental air and sea pollution and its impact on human health and aquaculture. In urban areas of the EU, more than 94% of the population occasionally inhales levels of particulate matter above WHO recommendations. The project organizes measurements of ultra-small particles (<100 nm) at locations of intense kinesiological activity. At the same time, the public perception of pollution among physically active citizens is examined.

In the Krka estuary, the influence of physical, chemical and biological parameters on aquaculture is analyzed, along with continuous measurements, development of a numerical model and an early warning system for unfavorable situations for aquaculture.

This research uses human spermatogenic and trophoblast cell models to examine the direct effects of air and marine pollutants on mitochondrial function, dynamics, and selective autophagy with the goal of better understanding the mechanisms of toxicity and preservation of reproductive health. In this way, it connects environmental toxicology with the molecular biology of reproduction.

In parallel, the integration of the cross-curricular themes of “health” and “sustainable development” in school mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology is being investigated. The development of manuals and workshops for students is planned to encourage research-oriented teaching and correlation with current socio-ecological challenges. The project also includes activities to popularize science and strengthen cooperation between science, education and the local community.