The Technological University of Panama (UTP), in collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment (MiAmbiente) and the Regional Center for the Western Hemisphere (CREHO-Ramsar), presented the documentary 'Panama towards a Blue Future'. The research included periodic water and sediment sampling at Playa La Marinera (Los Santos), Punta Galeta (Colón), and Punta Brujas (Panamá), applying advanced techniques such as sediment dating using lead-210. The study identified 233 species of microalgae, of which 48 were classified as potentially harmful to human health and ecosystems. At Playa La Marinera, concentrations of metals such as copper, nickel, and zinc were detected, which, although of natural origin, exceed ecological thresholds. Likewise, moderate ocean acidification conditions were observed at Punta Brujas, a risk factor for calcifying organisms. Water quality showed marked seasonal variations, identifying Punta Galeta as the most vulnerable site due to the decrease in dissolved oxygen during the rainy season. This data has been consolidated into a technical report delivered to the competent authorities to strengthen the country's environmental management. The research involved specialists from CIHH-UTP, the Environmental Performance Verification Directorate (Diveda) of MiAmbiente, the Panama Aquatic Resources Authority (Arap), the Latin University of Panama, and CREHO-Ramsar. The initiative also received international support from the 'José Benito Vives de Andréis' Marine and Coastal Research Institute (Invemar) of Colombia. The closing event brought together academic authorities and researchers, who emphasized the importance of having a scientific baseline to meet the commitments of the 2030 Agenda and ensure a sustainable future for the country's marine resources. 'The results of this project will serve for the voluntary reports that Panama periodically presents before the United Nations Assembly,' highlighted Dr. Kathia Broce, principal researcher of the project and producer of the documentary 'Panama towards a Blue Future.' This audiovisual production presents a scientific and human perspective on the challenges facing the country's coastal ecosystems, framed within the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14, 'Life Below Water.'
