The fact that it is faster and cheaper to unravel complete genomes of organisms, combined with AI-assisted tools for gene annotation, is enabling the discovery of new bioactive compounds, the development of innovative bioprocessing techniques and the use of marine organisms for various applications, such as food and feed production, pharmaceuticals, biofertilisers, cosmetics, new materials and the use of whole microorganisms for bioremediation.
With the support of increasingly efficient bioinformatics pipelines supported by artificial intelligence, it has been possible to discover more and more new enzymes, secondary metabolites and bioactive compounds in less time and with lower associated costs.
The ocean will undoubtedly provide the largest source of renewable energy yet to be exploited (be it waves, tides, temperature or salinity gradients, or the wind generated in the ocean) as an alternative to non-renewable sources, which means that there is still a lot to be done in the field of the ocean.
Offshore wind energy is at a commercially mature stage and has even proved itself in Portugal. However, wave energy, tidal energy and ocean solar energy are at a less technologically mature stage. In order to meet the targets, we need offshore energy systems that guarantee more energy from renewable sources and, desirably, a lower levelised cost of electricity (LCE).
“The Discoveries didn't get it right,” said Emeritus Pedro Nunes sometime in the 16th century. We are not afraid to err - but we must always be aware of not forgetting to learn from error. So in our action, Portugal will be an unstoppable wave of innovation in the new blue economy!
It is the pragmatism of the entrepreneur and the investor that embodies the scientist's passion, and makes the sustainable blue economy a reality that generates jobs and inclusive wealth.