Aquaculture plays a key role in the blue economy © Cromaris
Called the Mission Oceans Helix, the launch comes at a time when the blue economy is advancing at a pace. The gross value added by the EU's blue economy in 2020 was €129.1 billion, contributing 1.1 percent of the block's economy. Additionally, fish for human consumption is projected to increase by 14 percent to reach 182 million tonnes by 2032.
The Mission Oceans Helix aims to accelerate innovation to support sustainable economic growth in the sector while improving the health and viability of our oceans and waters.
To achieve that objective, members of the helix will have access to a global network of experts, international funding opportunities, and the chance to collaborate on cutting-edge research projects.
Joana Soares, manager of the helix, believes it will help bring expert innovators and thought-leading business leaders together so that they can collaboratively develop cost-efficient solutions that deliver ecological and economic impact.
As she explains: “The social, ecological and economic value of ocean literacy and the blue economy has long been recognised. Multidisciplinarity is key to overcoming the challenges facing the blue economy.
“Engagement at local and international levels, alongside the mobilisation of experts across all marine-related fields is essential to achieving the ambition laid out in the EU Green Deal and the mission to ‘Restore Our Ocean and Waters’ by 2030.
“By helping researchers and industry experts to build strategic collaborative partnerships, the Mission Oceans Helix can add real value. Members of the helix can harness its functionality to network, share training material and showcase innovations that can deliver tangible benefits to the sector”.
The Mission Oceans Helix is now open for membership. Researchers, academics, industry experts and regulatory professionals working in the blue economy, water and marine sector are invited to join and contribute to this exciting new community.
For more information and how to join, please visit the Crowdhelix website.
