Miranda Nilsson's degree project was part of the extensive research project Levande Vikar. Photo: Private.

"Choosing between studying marine biology and environmental science, I found it particularly exciting that I could align my master's thesis with the research project 'Living Bays,' creating a marine connection to my project," says Miranda.

Miranda's research focused on investigating the impact of reed cutting in shallow archipelago bays on carbon storage at the bottom.

"There are many shallow coastal areas that have been found to store significant amounts of carbon, mitigating ongoing climate change," Miranda explains. "Undisturbed mangrove forests and eelgrass meadows are some examples of ecosystems that store considerably more carbon than land-based forests, often over long periods. However, it's still relatively unknown how much carbon common reeds can store down in the sediment with their roots, and whether this storage capacity is affected by reed cutting."
Miranda's master's thesis meant long days in the laboratory, where she compared the amount of carbon in sediment samples taken before and after reed cutting, including samples from untouched areas for comparison to eliminate seasonal variations. In total, eight bays and 216 sediment samples were examined.

"I found the work enjoyable because the results will be applicable in the everyday lives of many people who are contemplating whether to remove reeds in their bays," Miranda remarks. "Should one cut reeds or not, considering the climate? The entire 'Living Bays' research project is very interesting, and it feels good to have been a part of it."

Miranda's findings indicate that reeds store a significant amount of carbon at the bottom, and this ability seems to be affected when reeds are cut, especially in well-protected bays. The research continues within the project, with final results expected in a year's time.

Sea, Environment, and Climate

Growing up on Rindö in the archipelago with a profound interest in nature, Miranda initially pursued marine biology in high school. She then completed her bachelor's program in environmental science with a focus on biology at the Department of Environmental Science. Following this, Miranda continued with her master's program in environmental science, specializing in the atmosphere, biogeochemistry, and climate. Her thesis was conducted within the 'Living Bays' research project.

"It was a pleasure to supervise Miranda. She was curious, structured, and motivated in her work," says her supervisor Åsa Nilsson Austin. "It was also a rewarding collaboration with the Department of Environmental Science, where Miranda conducted her sediment analyses and received guidance from Marcus Sundbom, who has a background in biogeochemistry."

Today, Miranda Nilsson works on various lake status assessments, among other tasks.

Today, Miranda Nilsson works, among other things, with status assessments of various lakes. Photo: Private.

Job as an Environmental Consultant

Now, Miranda has embarked on a career in environmental monitoring as an environmental consultant, sampler, and ship's officer at the company Calluna.

"We take various types of water samples, ranging from recipient control in the archipelago and lakes to drinking water sampling and other investigative activities," Miranda explains. "I have also been involved in the assessment of various lakes' status and have authored some reports. I enjoy it very much; being out in the field and working is a delightful contrast to all the studying in recent years. Although I can already feel that I miss using my brain in the way that research demands," Miranda concludes.