The research team is comprised of researchers from the University of Aveiro (UA) and the University of Coimbra (UC) as well as research directors from two Regional Hydrographical Authorities (ARHs) - a combination of team members that assures the development and application of an integrated approach that is scientifically sound and novel as well as practically useful and applicable. The Principle Investigator has ample experience in the development and application of integrated approaches for water quality management in linked catchment and coastal ecosystems, which have contributed to the development of various water quality improvement plans. The team members of the University of Aveiro and the University of Coimbra have vast experience in regional planning, environmental impact assessment and water quality modelling -within the national, Iberian as well as European context. Finally, the directors of the ARH-Centro and ARH-Norte form the key linkage assuring the development, testing and application of the integrated approach to the intra and trans-boundary case study catchments.