Diving into Ocean Observation: Why and how we study our ocean

Join us to explore how ocean observation helps us understand, protect, and shape a fair and sustainable future for Europe’s ocean and coastal communities.

The session will cover:
Ocean Observation: why observing the ocean matters for people’s lives, coastal communities, and ecosystems, and how ocean data help address climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental risks.
Intergenerational perspectives on coastal change: how rapid environmental, social, and economic changes in coastal areas affect different generations, and why young people should have a stronger voice in shaping solutions.
The role of the EU in Ocean Observation: how the EU supports ocean observation through key initiatives such as the EU Ocean Observation Initiative, the European Digital Twin of the Ocean, and the Ocean Pact, and how these contribute to resilient and thriving coastal regions.
Opportunities for engagement and different career paths: how young people can get involved in ocean observation through citizen science, education, intergenerational dialogues, different career paths, and how ocean data underpin new and more inclusive opportunities within the sustainable blue economy.

The session is designed to encourage exchange and interaction, combining short presentations by Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs) with small-group discussions on:
Ocean Observation: the basics
The role of ocean data in everyday life
The European Digital Twin of the Ocean
The EU, ocean observation, and a fair coastal transition
Career paths and youth engagement in Ocean Observation