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On 17 October, Rede Hub Azul Portugal attended the special plenary session of the Oeiras Bluetech Ocean Forum, a leading event dedicated to innovation, technology and sustainability in the Blue Economy.
The session aimed to raise awareness of the dynamics of the main open innovation ecosystems in Portugal, with a special focus on the Hub Azul Portugal project as a platform for aggregating knowledge, technology and entrepreneurship related to the sea.
Innovation and synergies in the Blue Economy
During the session, Gonçalo Faria, Lead Manager of Hub Azul Portugal, emphasised the strategic importance of innovation in the Blue Economy, highlighting the synergies being developed between the Hub Azul Portugal Network and the various stakeholders in the ecosystem, including scientific, technological, business and institutional entities.
Technology and science at the service of sustainability
The panel discussion that followed was moderated by Manuel Melo, Innovation Manager at Hub Azul Portugal, and featured a number of speakers of recognised merit:
- Noelia A., Satellite Applications Engineer at the European Space Agency (ESA);
- Diana Viegas, researcher and project manager at INESC TEC;
- Tiago Filipe Marques, Senior Innovation Consultant at Beta-i – Collaborative Innovation.
The debate focused on the decisive role of technology and science in promoting sustainability and developing the Blue Economy in Portugal, highlighting the importance of collaboration between research, industry and innovation.
Satellite data and new opportunities
One of the key topics of discussion was the relevance of satellite data for the Blue Economy. The European Space Agency (ESA) plays a key role in providing data that enables innovative solutions in the areas of ocean monitoring and protection.
The potential collaboration between Rede Hub Azul Portugal and ESA was identified as a strategic opportunity for the development of new technological solutions geared towards the sustainable management of marine resources and the growth of the blue economy.
Strengthening networks and preparing for the future
This panel provided an excellent opportunity to strengthen collaborative networks, promote knowledge sharing, and stimulate new partnerships that reinforce the innovation capacity of the Portugal Blue Hub Network.
The perspectives outlined during the Oeiras Bluetech Ocean Forum reinforce the ambition of the Portugal Blue Hub Network to continue to drive a more sustainable, innovative and competitive Blue Economy, with a positive impact on the future of the oceans.