RETROACTIONS

Project "RETROACTIONS"

Coordination: Jean Secondi.

Analysing feedback loops between compartments is essential for understanding and evaluating ecosystem services in socio-ecosystems. This conceptual framework has not previously been formalised within the LMA, but a great deal of work has been carried out across various disciplines which should allow us to position ourselves within the framework for studying feedback loops between the biophysical and social compartments. The development of this project is now facilitated by the structuring of the RESSLA project. Three key factors that alter the quality or quantity of ecosystem services in the Loire basin have been identified: biological invasions, contaminants, and land-use planning and management. We will seek to develop and structure the project, starting with biological invasions.
The Loire is accumulating a large number of invasive species, some of which impact the functioning of major wetlands and the economic activity associated with them (Grande Brière, Grand Lieu lake). Several research teams, as well as the OBLA project, are addressing this issue but in a fragmented and unfocused manner on ecosystem services. How the accumulation of new species modifies the ecosystem and its functioning in the long term, as well as the activities and perception of the territory by its inhabitants, is a central question that can be approached in a more collaborative and original way at the basin scale. Rapid synergies with managers are expected, as a working group on invasive species in the Loire basin, led by the federation of conservatories of natural areas, has been operational for several years. The development of other themes will be driven by the dynamics of research groups.