Large brown macroalgae such as Cystoseira sensu lato species are highly threatened in many location including Tenerife, resulting in reductions of the populations' distribution. At present, in Punta Blanca (Tenerife) Cystoseira s.l. populations are restricted to few scattered individuals in the intertidal pools.

The restoration of the Cystoseira s.l. macroalgal forests of Punta Blanca will be performed in the framework of the European Horizon project OCEAN CITIZEN. The main objectives of OCEAN CITIZEN are to develop a replicable marine restoration protocol that combine habitat, carbon immobilization and biodiversity regeneration with social engagement and economic benefits to all the local communities.

OCEAN CITIZEN aims to deliver environmental, societal and economic impacts beyond partnership’s immediate scope and duration. The project expects to successfully restore degraded marine forests, including Cystoseira s.l. species, and deliver nature-based solutions for climate change mitigation while adopting protocols to measure the coastal restoration and management impact. Furthermore, we will boost an ocean-literate society, promote blue growth opportunities and contribute to existing legislation on restoration and conservation practices in underwater coastal areas.

OCEAN CITIZEN is Co-funded by the European Union, under Horizon Europe Research and Innovation programme, Grant agreement No. 101093910.