The event focused on ocean protection, the blue economy and upcoming EU policies, uniting efforts for a sustainable marine environment.
From 3 to 7 March , Brussels became the hub of ocean action as the European Ocean Days brought together researchers, policymakers, youth and industry leaders to discuss how to preserve Europe’s marine ecosystems and boost its blue economy. With 14 events and more than 1,800 attendees, the European Ocean Days covered topics from the EU Mission ‘Restore our Ocean and Waters’ to blue innovation and investment. It also helped shape two key upcoming EU policies – the European Ocean Pact and the European Water Resilience Strategy.
Shaping the future of ocean policies
The week was an opportunity for the ocean community to meet and discuss the future of our ocean from different perspectives.
In preparation for the European Ocean Pact, the Commission invited all ocean actors to take part in the Fisheries and Ocean Dialogues and share their views on the future of the EU ocean policies. The inputs received during the dialogues will help shape the upcoming Ocean Pact in a collaborative manner, making sure all voices and needs are considered and taken into account.
The Pact aims to
- bring coherence across all EU policies related to the ocean,
- ensure a healthy and productive ecosystem,
- strengthen a resilient blue economy,
- expand the EU’s marine knowledge framework, and
- support the prosperity of EU coastal communities.
The participants to the discussions emphasised the need for a coherent governance framework and sound funding. There are huge opportunities in the sustainable management of our resources. Previsions show that a systemic approach holds the promise of strengthening the blue economy and further increasing its yearly turnover of over 600 billion euros.
The European Ocean Pact is more than just a governance framework. It is a reflection of our shared responsibility to protect our marine environment and ensures that coastal communities are empowered to thrive. I believe that, as we continue this journey together, we must make sure no one is left behind.
A high-level event gathered stakeholders to provide input for the European Water Resilience Strategy, which aims to improve water management, address water scarcity, enhance the competitiveness of the European water industry and promote a circular economy approach. The discussions highlighted that water is a unifying global issue, already central to the international agenda. Participants emphasised the importance of mainstreaming water across all policies and advocated for a ‘one water’ approach, where all sectors collaborate. This should be supported by significant investments in the next Multiannual Financial Framework, making water a strategic priority. It was also noted that water and competitiveness must align, with a focus on scaling up innovative solutions and skills.
What is good for nature will also be good for businesses. Europe's water sector has the potential to become a global leader in new technologies.
Driving change with the Mission Ocean and Waters Forum and its community
Another highlight of the week was the third Annual Forum of Mission Restore Our Ocean and Waters. It presented the Mission’s progress, showcased solutions – including through an exhibition – and engaged attendees to collaborate to protect our ocean and waters.
Participants explored the Mission’s role in the upcoming EU priorities, including the European Ocean Pact, discussed the Digital Twin of the Ocean, fully operational by 2030, and celebrated achievements in mobilising stakeholders and communities across Europe under the Mission Charter.
The Mission Ocean Forum is about action, not just ambition. With over 1,000 commitments to the Mission Charter, communities across Europe are stepping up to protect our ocean and waters. Now, we need to turn that energy into lasting change. The Mission’s deployment agenda will help scale up real solutions – cleaner waters, restored ecosystems, and a stronger blue economy. By embedding this work into EU policies, we’re making sure these efforts don’t just make a difference today, but for generations to come.
The EU Blue Parks Community, a cornerstone of the Mission, focused on one ambitious goal: strictly protecting at least 10% of EU sea areas by 2030. At its fourth workshop, the Community presented compelling evidence of the benefits of strict protection for people and nature. They also discussed effective tools and strategic frameworks to accelerate the expansion of strictly protected areas from the current 0.03% of EU seas, emphasising the importance of direct stakeholder engagement to help them experience the benefits and actively participate in the establishment and management of these areas.
Collaboration was a key theme throughout the week, with a Mission matchmaking event focused on promoting the uptake and replication of solutions. It connected stakeholders from various fields, including Charter actions, Mission projects and investors, to accelerate partnerships and advance the Mission’s goals. Representatives from regions, cities, ports and islands communities showcased local initiatives, while universities and research communities explored opportunities to integrate transdisciplinary education, skills, and research into ocean and water studies.
For more updates on the European Ocean Days events, check out our news section and subscribe to our newsletter. Want to be part of the collective effort to restore our oceans and waters? Join the Mission Charter!