Impact stories are a short format we use to provide an overview of the research process from results and outputs, to outcomes and impact. These are constructed to swiftly communicate the significance of projects we have chosen to highlight.
Researchers have discovered three things that are crucial for the survival of farmed salmon
High mortality among farmed salmon poses a major challenge for sustainable aquaculture in the Nordic region. The Happy Salmon research project investigated how salmon better can cope with the critical transition from fresh to seawater.
The project identified three key factors that may increase survival rates: ensuring full development of gill, kidney and intestinal functions before transfer; reducing or rethinking fasting practices; and using energy-rich feed to strengthen fish before the transition. It also generated new biological data and practical knowledge for farmers and feed producers.
These insights provide actionable guidance for the aquaculture sector, contributing to improved fish welfare and fewer losses. This is important for a sustainable seafood industry in the region.
Children with cancer can receive treatment across the Nordic region
Childhood cancer is rare but remains a leading cause of death among children over one year old, especially when standard treatments fail. The Nordic research network NOPHOmatch is ensuring that children with cancer can access personalised treatment in neighbouring countries.
The network has strengthened collaboration among paediatric oncology specialists to improve access to new and personalised treatments. By sharing clinical knowledge and discussing complex cases in regular cross-border meetings, clinicians can quickly identify alternative therapies and treatment options for children with difficult or relapsing cancers.
The network established expanded opportunities for participation in clinical trials, and created two specialised trial centres in the region.
Together, these advances broaden access to cutting-edge therapies and show how coordinated healthcare efforts can improve outcomes for patients with rare and complex conditions.
Promising results for the first commercial perennial grain crop in northern Europe
Agriculture in northern Europe must balance food production with climate targets while protecting soil health and biodiversity. Perennial crops like Kernza could reshape agriculture as we know it. The Viking project tested the potential of the intermediate wheatgrass Kernza, a climate-friendly crop that regrows each year and provides both grain and forage.
The project assessed how Kernza performs across the Nordics and Baltics by examining fertilisation strategies, intercropping with legumes, harvesting approaches and winter resilience under different conditions.
The preliminary findings show a lot of potential for Kernza. The crop grows well in the Baltic region and has a strong winter resistance. The forage contains high protein levels and much energy.
These results highlight that developing perennial grain crops can enable more resource-efficient farming systems and support the transition to more climate resilient agriculture.
Physical activity and trust are keys to better health for elderly immigrants
Elderly immigrants in the Nordics are at higher risk of health problems, yet the welfare systems have limited experience in supporting this group. The HEALTHCOM project explores how physical activity can promote both health and social integration among elderly migrants.
Using participatory methods, researchers worked directly with communities across several countries to identify barriers to participation and co-develop suitable activities in local contexts. They tested activity models such as group walking, yoga and swimming, and generated practical knowledge on how to build trust and engagement.
The project informs more inclusive and responsive welfare services, supporting healthier ageing and greater social participation among diverse populations across the Nordic region.
Pandemic preparedness: Wastewater treatment plants can reveal if a superbug outbreak is coming
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most serious health threats of our time. Wastewater can be an important source of knowledge about AMR. Wastewater treatment plants should therefore be part of the emergency response strategy to notify authorities of precursors to potentially dangerous events.
The TruSTme research project has investigated how wastewater treatment plants can be used to monitor the spread of resistant bacteria and pathogens. The researchers developed a prototype set of early warning tools for detecting AMR directly at treatment plants and compiled knowledge on monitoring untreated and treated wastewater.
This strengthens the societal resilience in the Nordic region by supporting public health surveillance and faster as well as more proactive responses to outbreaks.