Registration is now open for the Ocean Knowledge 2030 Conference

Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare. Pioneering Event to Shape Ireland’s Ocean Research Agenda for a Sustainable Future

The Marine Institute is delighted to announce that registration is now open for the Ocean Knowledge 2030 Conference, set to take place on November 20th – 21st, 2024, in the RDS, Dublin.

Ocean Knowledge 2030 is a must-attend for anyone interested in shaping the future of Ireland’s ocean. With leading policymakers, ocean scientists, academics and industry experts set to attend, the conference promises to be a milestone event in ocean research and collaboration.   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, also called Ocean Knowledge 2030.

The conference will feature a dynamic programme of keynote addresses, expert panels, and interactive discussions with policy makers, thought leaders, scientific experts, and industry representatives, aimed at shaping Ireland’s strategic priorities for marine research. Keynote speakers include Dr John Bell 'Healthy Planet” Director, European Commission, Caroline Bocquel, CEO Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Professor Karen Wiltshire, CRH Professor of Climate Science, Trinity College Dublin and Professor Jan Mees, General Director Flanders Marine Institute. These speakers, along with many others, will provide deep insights on key topics such as ocean climate impacts, seafood production, offshore renewable energy, and the future of Ireland’s ocean economy.  A particular emphasis will be placed on building and maintaining national capabilities in diverse areas of applied ocean research, with a focus on delivering impact in addressing critical societal challenges and the development of sustainable ocean businesses.

Speaking ahead of the event, Marine Institute CEO Dr Rick Officer, emphasised the importance of the Conference: "Ocean Knowledge 2030 is a pivotal event that will shape Ireland's approach to managing and preserving its ocean resources and we encourage everyone with a stake in Ireland’s marine future to join us. As we face growing environmental and economic challenges, advancing our understanding of the ocean is essential to making informed decisions based on data and evidence. Through focused research and innovation, we can support coastal communities and secure a thriving blue economy for generations to come.” 

With Ireland’s rich marine heritage and growing commitment to sustainable ocean management, the upcoming Ocean Knowledge 2030 Conference is a critical platform for collaborative dialogue and action. Dr Niall McDonough, Director of Policy Innovation and Research Support Services at the Marine Institute, said: “This conference in a milestone event and will launch the new national marine research strategy, also called Ocean Knowledge 2030. A well-defined research strategy for ocean knowledge is critical to Ireland’s future, and it must be shaped through collaboration with all relevant stakeholders. By working together—scientists, policymakers, industry, and communities—we are setting a focused research agenda to unlock the full potential of our ocean while safeguarding it for future generations”.

Secure your place at and be part of this vital conversation on Ireland’s ocean future!

Registration is now open, and places are limited, so early booking is encouraged. For more details and to register, visit Ocean Knowledge 2030

ENDS

For further details contact:
Sinéad Coyne, Marine Institute sinead.coyne@marine.ie M +353 (0)87 947 7090

Sheila Byrnes, Marine Institute sheila.byrnes@marine.ie M +353 (0)87 815 5271

About the Marine Institute:

The Marine Institute is Ireland’s national agency responsible for marine research, technology development, and innovation. It plays a pivotal role in promoting the sustainable development of Ireland’s marine resources through cutting-edge research and collaboration.