The Sea Sentinels subproject integrates scientific research efforts, environmental education, and communication, and will provide subsidies for understanding the exposure and effects of marine pollution on the biota in the coastal zone of the state of Rio de Janeiro, based on the analysis of four endangered species: the estuarine dolphin Sotalia guianensis, the franciscana Pontoporia blainvillei, the spiny butterfly ray Gymnura altavela and the blue land crab Cardisoma guanhumi. 

In parallel to the research efforts, this initiative proposes two lines of communication aimed at raising awareness and informing about the types and sources of marine pollution, its negative effects on the environment and on species, including ours. 

The proposal is presented by researchers from the State University of Rio de Janeiro and the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro in partnership with the Noel Rosa Cultural and Research Association, as the proposing institution. 

The subproject will last for 24 months and is expected to generate unprecedented scientific information that will make it possible to assess the exposure of endangered species to pollution resulting from oil exploration activities and plastic waste in the coastal region of the State of Rio de Janeiro, and to develop and implement educational resources for activities in schools and digital communication strategies aimed at raising awareness among the general public about pollution and its impacts on marine ecosystems.