The City of Helsinki has commissioned a comprehensive survey of Botbyviken, focusing on analyzing the environmental impact of the new residential area at Botbystranden on the marine environment and nearby shoreline areas. The objective is to ensure that urban development occurs in an ecologically sustainable manner by identifying potential environmental effects on water quality, ecosystems, and biodiversity.
MIX Research Sweden, in collaboration with Alleco Oy, is contributing to the study by utilizing eDNA to map the presence of fish and mussel species in Botbyviken and its tributaries. This non-invasive and highly precise method provides a detailed picture of the ecosystem’s composition, enabling a more data-driven and scientifically based environmental assessment.
The collected information will serve as a critical decision-making tool in the continued planning of the residential area, ensuring that ecological values and the long-term health of the aquatic environment are taken into account. The study enhances scientific understanding of urban aquatic environments and supports sustainable urban development by integrating modern eDNA technology with environmental monitoring and ecosystem management.