In her talk, Olga Bakhmet highlighted the key projects implemented in recent years, including expeditions to the White Sea, Lake Onego, Solovetsky Islands and Ladoga skerries. KarRC RAS scientists conduct integrated monitoring of ecosystems, assess the recreational load on natural areas and sites, and create GIS maps of the areas. Special attention is paid to environmental monitoring projects and preparation of scientific substantiation documents for raising the conservation status of certain areas. The work of the Center's scientists contributes to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development of Russia's northern regions.

Presentations at the forum were also made by Yulia Lukina, Director of the Northern Water Problems Institute KarRC RAS, and Alexandra Smirnova, Head of the Educational Center “KarRC RAS Museum of Applied Environmental Research”.

In particular, Yulia Lukina presented the results of research into the ecological state of Solovetsky Archipelago coastal waters. Scientists have documented a deterioration of water quality in Blagopoluchiya Bay - its trophic status is recognized as hypereutrophic, and the pollution level as high. Arguably, the main causes of the deterioration are untreated wastewater discharges, growing anthropogenic load, and changes in the hydrodynamic regime. Integrated studies of Solovetsky Islands’ coastal waters include expeditions, digital mapping and modeling of hydrodynamic processes under climate change.

Alexandra Smirnova gave a talk on environmental education projects implemented at the Museum of Applied Environmental Research KarRC RAS. In her presentation she informed about more than 130 guided tours in 2024, master classes in practical biology, international cooperation, as well as new initiatives, including the development of programs for blind and senior citizens. The ecomuseum actively engages schoolchildren, students and local adults in studying the nature of Karelia.