Ireland’s ocean community is invited to take part in a pivotal event shaping the future of our seas and coastal economies. The Ocean Knowledge 2030 Conference will take place on 20-21 November at the RDS Concert Hall, Dublin, gathering the foremost voices in marine science, policy, and industry for a collaborative approach to securing a sustainable blue economy and a healthy ocean for future generations.
Hosted by the Marine Institute, the two-day Ocean Knowledge 2030 Conference will bring together national and international experts and thought leaders to address the pressing challenges facing our oceans, from biodiversity protection and coastal resilience to sustainable economic development and climate action.
Speaking ahead of the Ocean Knowledge 2030 Conference, Dr Niall McDonough, Director at the Marine Institute, stated, “This Conference is a crucial platform for everyone invested in Ireland’s marine future. It’s an opportunity for voices from all sectors—scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, and academics—to come together, share insights, and set a focussed research agenda to unlock the full potential of our ocean while safeguarding it for future generations”.
Dr Rick Officer, CEO of the Marine Institute, emphasised the importance of consultation and collaboration in securing a sustainable marine future: “By working together - experts, policymakers, and stakeholders across the marine sector, we can unlock new pathways for economic growth, protect our rich marine biodiversity, support coastal communities and contribute to global efforts in combating climate change. Prioritising ocean research is crucial not only for our national interests but for a sustainable global future.”
Conference Highlights:
The two-day event, moderated by journalist Karen Coleman, will feature a blend of keynote presentations, strategic panel discussions, and networking opportunities designed to foster innovation and collaboration in ocean research and policy.
DAY 1 – Wednesday, November 20TH
Key sessions on Day 1 include:
Opening: Opening the conference, Dr John Bell, Sinéad McSherry and Deirdre Lillis will offer perspectives on the pivotal role of international collaboration and innovative research in securing a sustainable future for our oceans. Sinead McSherry (Assistant Secretary General, Seafood and Marine, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine) will highlight the integral role that research, knowledge and innovation play in the Blue Economy and in securing prosperity and employment in coastal communities. Deirdre Lillis, Assistant Secretary General in Ireland’s Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, is at the forefront of shaping research and innovation policy at national level. John Bell is the “Healthy Planet” Director in DG Research & Innovation. He is responsible for leading the Research and Innovation transitions on Climate Change within planetary boundaries, Bioeconomy, Food Systems, Environment and Biodiversity, Oceans and Arctic, Circular Economy, Water and Bio-based innovations.
Session 1: Living with a Changing Ocean Led by Gerard McCarthy from University of Maynooth, this session will examine Ireland’s response to changing ocean and climate conditions, with insights from experts like Rosemarie Lawlor of Met Éireann and Karen Wiltshire from Trinity College Dublin. 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), Shane Dineen (Failte Ireland), Cormac Gebruers (DP Energy) 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. In addition, Olive Heffernan, a leading voice on high seas governance, will present on international efforts to safeguard vast ocean spaces and Lucy Hunt, The Ocean Race will discuss science initiatives supporting ocean sustainability through the globally recognised race.
DAY 2 – Thursday, November 21
The second day dives into data and management issues essential for Ireland’s ocean space and sustainability. Key sessions include:
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 panellists 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), Kate Crosman (Norwegian University of Science & Technology) and other leading experts discussing the role of ocean data in shaping future policy and industry practices.
