Interview with Professor Philippe Archambault

In this interview, Professor Philippe Archambault (Université Laval) presents his work on the impacts of changes in aquatic biodiversity and cumulative environmental stressors in the St. Lawrence River. His research shows that the interaction of multiple stressors (temperature, precipitation, pollution, shipping) generates non-linear responses—synergistic, antagonistic, or individual—within organisms (such as mussels) and ecosystems, making a combined rather than isolated analysis of these variables necessary. Faced with a lack of data in shallow coastal and intertidal areas, his team is developing impact modelling, in situ measurement tools, and interactive mapping to guide sustainable management of the marine environment and protect key species. Finally, the researcher advocates for giving scientific facts a central role rather than solely political and economic imperatives within Quebec’s Maritime Strategy.