Ocean Knowledge 2030 Conference programme annouced

SOURCE: Marine Institute

The countdown is on for the Ocean Knowledge 2030 Conference with just one month remaining until this landmark event takes place on November 20-21, 2024 at the RDS Concert Hall, Dublin. Organised by the Marine Institute, the conference will gather leading experts from across Ireland and Europe to advance ocean research, policy, and innovation, ensuring a sustainable future for our seas.

The conference promises to be a milestone event in ocean research and collaboration bringing together leading voices in marine science, policy, and industry to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities for the future of our oceans. This event will set the course for Ireland’s marine research and policy agenda, focusing on innovation, collaboration, and actionable strategies to secure a sustainable blue economy and a healthy ocean for future generations.

The conference programme is now available, and here are some highlights to look forward to:

The two-day event, moderated by journalist Karen Coleman, will feature keynote presentations, strategic panel discussions, and networking opportunities designed to foster innovation and collaboration in ocean research and policy.

•    Session 1: Living with a Changing Ocean will feature a keynote from Gerard McCarthy (University of Maynooth) and panelists from Met Éireann, Trinity College Dublin, and the Marine Institute, discussing Ireland’s policy and knowledge needs in addressing the impacts of a rapidly changing ocean. In addition, Irish wildlife cameraman, director, and broadcaster Colin Stafford Johnson will share his insights on the frontline.

•    Session 2: Ireland’s Ocean Economy: Research, Knowledge & Innovation will delve into Ireland’s marine industries, including seafood production, offshore renewable energy and maritime transport, exploring how research and innovation can drive sustainable development in these sectors. Speakers include Claire Jolly (OECD), Caroline Bocquel (BIM), Liam Lacey (Marine Institute) and Kerrie Sheehan (SEAI).

•    Session 3: One Global Ocean will explore Ireland’s role in international research policy and ocean governance. Speakers include Carl Grainger (Department of Foreign Affairs) and John Bell (European Commission), as well as international experts, who will discuss Ireland’s influence on ocean science and its priorities for international cooperation.

•    Session 4: Managing the Changing Use of Ireland’s Ocean Space will examine the research needs for managing Ireland’s maritime space. Philip Nugent (DECC), Laura Brien (MARA) and other panelists will discuss the increasing use of Ireland’s maritime space for industrial, recreational and conservation needs and the balancing of ocean health with economic activities.

•    Session 5: The Power of Ocean Data will showcase how digital technologies and data are driving sustainable ocean industries, with Conor Delaney (EMODNet), Jon Blower (UK National Oceanography Centre), and other leading experts discussing the role of ocean data in shaping future policy and industry practices.

With a focus on setting the research agenda for Ireland’s ocean future, the conference will also launch the new national strategy for marine research, knowledge and innovation Ocean Knowledge 2030.

Dr Rick Officer, CEO of the Marine Institute, emphasised the importance of this strategy: "The upcoming launch of the Ocean Knowledge 2030 Strategy represents a new era for marine research in Ireland. This strategy is about empowering decision-makers with the knowledge, data and evidence they need to address urgent challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, energy security and sustainable economic development. This is not just about gathering data; it’s about using knowledge to make informed decisions that will protect and sustainably manage our ocean resources for future generations.

“The Ocean Knowledge 2030 Strategy will mobilise Ireland's marine research community to deliver new levels of innovation and impact. The strategy will provide a roadmap for Ireland to build on its strengths in marine science, while fostering collaboration across sectors, and positioning the country as a global leader in ocean science and policy” he added.

There’s still time to register and participate in shaping the future of ocean research and sustainability. Don’t miss your opportunity and secure your place at Ocean Knowledge 2030 and be part of this vital conversation on Ireland’s ocean future!

To register and view the full programme, visit Ocean Knowledge 2030