Bio-Ilhas Project: Science, Education, and Awareness for River Conservation

Under the scope of the Bio-Ilhas project, a pilot floating island was installed in the urban section of the Fervença River (Bragança, NE Portugal – latitude: 41º47’N; longitude 6º46’W) for scientific and educational purposes. This river section was chosen for the implementation of this nature-based solution because it is highly regulated, eutrophicated, and has a concrete embankment on the left bank, preventing vegetation establishment. The installed island consists of two square floating matrices of 4 m² (each 2x2 m), one made of recycled expanded polystyrene and the other of cork agglomerate. The plants selected for this structure were Lythrum salicaria, Juncus effusus, and Iris pseudacorus, chosen because they are autochthonous in the river. The main objectives of this project are: (1) to assess the feasibility of this solution for future rehabilitation efforts and biodiversity enhancement, and (2) to promote public literacy and awareness about rivers and their ecological value. Therefore, the project includes scientific monitoring of water quality and vegetation development, alongside educational initiatives aimed at schools and the local community. These include workshops, guided visits, and informative materials to foster environmental awareness and encourage public involvement. This communication presents the key scientific and educational activities carried out to date, while also addressing the challenges of a project that integrates science, education, and environmental awareness as a model for future urban river management. The Bio-Ilhas project also aims to demonstrate the potential of nature-based solutions to improve urban aquatic ecosystems and strengthen the connection between society and rivers.