The workshop brought together senior officials and experts from policy, research, and business communities involved in the blue economy of the North Sea to share contributions and best practices. These discussions are set to inform the Partnership’s Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda and activities, driving forward its efforts to support a sustainable and resilient blue economy.

Key takeaways from the presentations, interactive discussion and World Café session included:  

• There is a need to build a cohesive and overarching European policy to address the fragmented nature of the blue economy. With diverse policies, stakeholders, financial instruments, and regional needs, a unified framework is essential to accelerate research and innovation and impactful outcomes.  
• Enhancing stakeholder connections and cooperation was also highlighted as a priority, namely between research organisations and national policymakers as well as businesses. Increased collaboration will help integrate the blue economy into the framework of the European Green Deal and the reinforced emphasis on European competitiveness, supporting key objectives such as the EU’s climate and renewable energy targets, and the economic vitality of coastal communities.
• As oceans form some of Europe’s main borders, their role in security and defence is growing. It will therefore be important to position the blue economy at the heart of these conversations, aligning with the new European Commission’s focus on defence and security.

This workshop not only showcased the North Sea region’s contributions to the blue economy but also emphasised the critical role of cooperation in advancing the blue economy as a cornerstone of Europe’s sustainable future.  

The recording of the workshop is available here (morning sessions) and here (afternoon sessions).