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Description
This project aims to establish a network between Portuguese and Norwegian conservators and scientists dealing with biodeterioration of cultural heritage, through the collaborative assessment of microorganisms (fungi and bacteria) in the Sea Trade Archive from the University Library of Bergen and the University Museum of Bergen.
STA-ULB is part of the UNESCO documentary heritage and uniquely documents the activity of companies that traded in stock fish in Norway and Europe. These documents were used as a working instrument in the fishing industry and so were exposed to soiled and humid
Summary of the results
This bilateral initiative successfully forged and enhanced a cooperative partnership between the donor country, Norway, and the beneficiary, Portugal, through their respective institutions. The exchange program, involving two representatives from each country visiting their counterpart''s institutions, proved highly beneficial for direct networking, knowledge sharing, and the comparison of operational methodologies. This interaction led to the creation of a joint protocol and sparked dynamic discussions centred on the diverse approaches observed in various settings, laying the groundwork for potential future collaborations.
This initiative also featured a well-attended webinar that exceeded expectations with 125 participants. It served as a vital platform for bringing together key figures from the Portuguese and Norwegian embassies, two representatives from the EEA grants, and four from the involved institutions. This event played a crucial role in raising awareness about the availability of such grants and partnerships, bolstering bilateral relations, and promoting the project.
The networks established and the outcomes achieved through this initiative are poised to enhance the scientific contributions of the partners and pave the way for securing larger funding opportunities, thus contributing to diminishing the economic and social disparities between both countries.