Why Europe needs to invest in ocean intelligence

Europe must invest in ocean intelligence to adapt, compete, and lead in an uncertain world, according to Dr Niall McDonough, director of policy, innovation, and research support services at the Marine Institute. Europe's competitiveness, security, and resilience hinge on its ability to transform ambition into action through robust marine knowledge systems.

These systems, comprising ocean observations, data systems, research, expertise, infrastructures, networks, partnerships, and programmes, are interdependent. Without strong marine knowledge systems, Europe cannot evaluate marine protected areas' effectiveness, monitor ecosystem recovery, understand climate impacts, or measure progress towards environmental targets.

These systems provide evidence, know-how, and operational capabilities that enable informed decision-making, risk management, and course correction. They also help ocean businesses reduce operational risk, improve planning, and make informed investment decisions, enhancing Europe's competitiveness in emerging ocean industries. However, Europe's marine observation and data systems remain fragmented, with different actors developing them for various interests.

The OceanEye initiative aims to reduce fragmentation and close critical data gaps. Europe's long tradition of investing in public goods creates value across society and could strengthen its ocean knowledge systems. Horizon Europe is the only global research programme that can foster collaboration and innovation. The next Multi-Annual Financial Framework and Horizon Europe programme must recognize ocean research, knowledge, and innovation as strategic investments to help Europe adapt, compete, and lead.