The SEAHEALS project, driven by the University of Barcelona, positions blue health —the interaction between health, well-being and the marine environment— as a strategic axis for advancing research and knowledge transfer in the field of psychological and physiological well-being. It is a large-scale initiative, recently funded in the second call of the POCTEFA 2021–2027 programme, which promotes cooperation between France, Spain and Andorra for a more sustainable and cohesive future in the Pyrenean territory.

Led by Professor David Gallardo, Full Professor at the Faculty of Psychology, director of the Individual Differences Lab (IDLab) research group and member of the Institute of Neurosciences (UBneuro), and Professor Jordi Renom, from the Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, SEAHEALS also involves the participation of the Health and Social Union for Support and Prevention (USSAP) and the SomMar association.

SEAHEALS aims to create a cross-border network to analyse and scientifically validate the psychological and physiological benefits of marine activities, applying innovative methodologies and an interdisciplinary approach. The project’s main lines of work include:

• The study of the effects of the sea on mental health and emotional well-being.
• The scientific validation of marine activities with therapeutic potential.
• The development of a digital platform that highlights resources, alliances and knowledge in the territory related to blue health.

The project seeks to benefit both the general public and individuals with physical or mental health conditions, contributing to the design of interventions that integrate the sea as a safe and accessible therapeutic environment.

Aligned with Priority 1 of the POCTEFA programme, SEAHEALS will strengthen the connection between science, public health, sustainability and territorial cohesion, promoting the conservation of the marine environment as a health resource and fostering sustainable tourism linked to well-being.

The initiative will also contribute to the development of the Eastern Coastal Functional Area between Catalonia and the Côte Vermeille, and support the creation of stronger synergies between scientific stakeholders, healthcare administrations and social organisations.

SEAHEALS is one of four UB-linked projects funded in this POCTEFA call, with a total budget of 1,060,643.05 euros. Its approval reaffirms the University of Barcelona’s commitment to high-impact research aimed at knowledge transfer and the sustainable development of the territory.