WP1: “Climate change and impact on coastal ocean”

In the first work package, we aim to attribute the impact of climate change on the coastal sea level and ocean waves via changes in the winds and ocean warming.

We plan to deliver high-resolution coastal wind data for the Kerala coast, new high-resolution sea-level and sea-state data, a new statistical modeling framework which will aid in quantifying the influence of wind and ocean warming on sea level and ocean waves, and statistical analysis maps that depict trends in winds, sea level, and waves.

WP2: “Coastal shoreline change”

In the second work package, we aim to:

• Map the observed coastal changes along the Kerala coastline harnessing earth observation data;

• Validate numerical modelling for coastal change prediction;

• Predict future coastal change and coastal inundation.

We plan to build up a database of present and past shoreline locations, coastal settings, and characteristics. We also aim to develop a calibrated numerical model for coastal change along the Kerala coastline. And we want to develop an interactive map for stakeholders on the local to regional socio-economic impact of coastal change from storm surge inundations.

WP3: “Coastal habitats”

In the third work package, we focus on the impact of shoreline change on the less studied sensitive coastal habitats, mangroves, and seagrass along the Kerala coast. We aim to:

• Assess the long-term change in mangrove cover along Kerala coast;

• Identify potential habitat for sea grass rehabilitation.

We plan to produce a mangrove risk-classification map for Kerala and a WEBGIS application for modelling seagrass habitat suitability in supporting seagrass management.

WP4: “Harmful algal bloom”

In the fourth work package, we aim to:

• study the variability in harmful algal bloom (HAB) dynamics in response to climate change;

• Develop forecasts of harmful algal blooms based on changes in water quality due to shoreline erosion and inundation.

We plan to produce a dataset on the change in phytoplankton composition at HAB locations and phytoplankton co-existence in Kerala coast at harmful algal bloom-prone areas during HAB and non-HAB conditions. We also plan to forecast HAB events.

WP5: “Outreach with stakeholders”

We will develop a plan for how to effectively include the recommendations of the C3-eKerala project in the next Kerala state action management plan and have multiple outreach events and programs to reach policymakers at the highest level, the fishing community, and small-scale industrial and business firms, among others.