The “Supporting Marine Research Knowledge Exchange for Blue Growth” workshop chaired by MEP and EurOcean’s President Ricardo Serrão Santos, which attracted the interest of over 50 stakeholders, explored how to improve exchange of marine knowledge to support innovation and the Blue Growth and in particular at the European maritime regions level.

MEP and EurOcean’s President Ricardo Serrão Santos set the scene by referring to the 2015 European Parliament communication on the potential of research and innovation in the Blue Economy and presentations focussed on the need to widen the understanding of Blue Economy and the shortage of qualified professionals in various fields. The event culminated in a proposal from DG MARE´s Claus Schultze to further explore this thematic area through a round-table two-way debate. EuOcean together with other participants are already planning a follow-up event for 2017.

The fruitful discussion between event participants also highlighted the need for a stronger societal dimension in marine knowledge exchange activities which may be addressed through the Responsible Research and Innovation agenda.

This and other event conclusions will be made available in the event report, expected by mid-November.

The workshop counted with the participation of several high level speakers including the European Commission DG R&I and DG MARE among other, including EurOcean Member SUBMARINER Network's managing director Angela Schultz-Zehden recently awarded the "Woman of the year in the Blue Economy" Blue Economy Business Awards.

For further information on the event including Agenda, photos and speakers presentations please visit the SEARICA Intergroup Website.