Language
Country/Area
No result found
From 1995 to today: How is the European Marine Commission transforming cooperation in ocean research?
Since its creation in 1995, the European Marine Board (EMB) has been an important driver of European marine research policy. This trans-European network brings together countries and their relevant organisations dedicated to the cooperation and development of marine research. As the challenges facing ocean science grow, the EMB is particularly important in bridging the gap between science and policy.
"The ocean is our planet's life support system and it is vital to understand and protect it."
Background
The European Marine Council serves as a leading think tank, providing a platform for national organisations to develop common priorities and promoting the advancement of marine research. The committee was established in 1995 as an expert committee of the European Science Foundation (ESF). In 2016, it became an independent international non-profit organization and separated completely from ESF in 2017. This independence step marked an important change in the model of ocean science cooperation.
Objectives and Activities
Goal
The main objective of the European Marine Council is to provide a collaborative platform to ensure that its member organisations can achieve shared priorities in marine research. The Commission works to connect scientific insights to policy development to address future challenges in ocean science. It also plays an important role in shaping European marine research policy and provides guidance for marine science in the European research area.
Events
To advance ocean science and policy, the European Ocean Commission carries out a number of activities, including:
- Produce strategic publications such as position papers and policy briefs.
- Organize key ocean science policy conferences and events.
- Hold various thematic panels, including the IOC Communications Panel.
- Participate in EU strategic projects and provide ongoing information and advice to members.
“Our goal is to foster collaboration in ocean research and ensure that scientific discoveries support policy.”
Membership
Membership of the European Marine Council is open to three types of organizations:
- National research conducting organizations (e.g. large national marine or oceanographic institutes);
- National research funding organizations (such as national research councils and departments that fund ocean research);
- Alliance of national higher education institutions (open to membership since 2010, subject to relevant criteria).
Governance structure
The European Maritime Council consists of three governance levels:
- Committee: is composed of representatives from member organizations, each organization consists of one representative and one alternate representative. The committee holds plenary sessions once a year in spring and autumn.
- Executive Committee: It consists of a Chairman, six Vice Chairmen and Executive Directors (who serve as Committee members) and is responsible for supervising and directing the work of the Secretariat.
- Secretariat: Supports overall coordination and management, and implementation of the decisions and activities of the Committee and the Executive Committee.
Future Outlook
As global climate change and pressures on marine ecosystems increase, the future work of the European Marine Commission will become even more important. It needs to continually adapt and refine its strategies to meet new challenges and opportunities. Only through effective collaboration can we ensure that ocean research meets future needs.
"Our work is not just about scientific research, it is also about our commitment to future ocean governance."
As the European Marine Commission continues to grow in influence, future ocean research collaborations will deepen. How will the long-term impact of this change shape our understanding and management of the ocean?
