In your view, what are the main trends currently shaping the development of ocean observation infrastructure, and how are they influencing the growth of the blue tech sector?
We are currently witnessing a significant evolution in ocean observation infrastructure, characterised by increasing integration between systems, greater technological autonomy and major advances in digitalisation. In this context, the following stand out: the consolidation of global observation networks, such as the Argo programme, based on the use of autonomous floats; the growing mobilisation of opportunity platforms, notably through the global Fishing Vessel Ocean Observing Network (FVON); the increasingly widespread use of autonomous vehicles, such as AUVs, gliders, USVs and drones; and the expansion of permanent networks of underwater observatories. Added to these trends is the growing contribution of citizen science and local communities, which enhance the coverage and relevance of observation systems.
At the same time, there is a growing use of artificial intelligence for the processing and interpretation of data in near real time, as well as the development of digital twins of the ocean, driven by the volume and diversity of data currently available.
Taken together, these infrastructures and systems are driving the technology sector and the blue economy by enabling continuous, high-resolution monitoring of the ocean. This creates the conditions for the development of new products and services, ranging from ocean and weather forecasting to applications in areas such as offshore energy, sustainable aquaculture and environmental protection.
How do you view the growing importance of ocean data as a strategic asset, and what opportunities are emerging across your value chain?
Ocean data is increasingly becoming a key strategic asset, on a par with other major global data systems, such as meteorology. Its importance spans scientific research, the blue economy, maritime safety and adaptation to climate change.
Opportunities are emerging across the value chain in areas such as the development of digital platforms and data services, such as data-as-a-service, through which users and businesses can access, consult and use data without having to collect, store or manage it directly, whilst promoting the principle that data collected for a specific purpose can be reused multiple times, by different users and for different applications.
At the same time, there are significant opportunities in the integration of multisensor data, combining data from different sources and types of sensors; opportunities in promoting interoperability, where different systems use compatible formats, standards and protocols; opportunities in the development of artificial intelligence-based applications for forecasting and decision support, which analyse large volumes of data and generate forecasts or recommendations; as well as opportunities in the creation of data markets and associated new business models, transforming data into economic assets, in which data is valued, shared and commercialised.
Opportunities are emerging in areas such as the development of digital platforms and data services, such as data-as-a-service.
What role can infrastructure such as EMSO-PT play in bridging the gap between science, technology and the market, and in accelerating the development of new applications and services?
Infrastructures such as EMSO-PT play a central role in bridging the gap between science, technology and the market. They serve as platforms for testing and validating technology, enabling companies and institutions to trial and scale up innovative solutions in a real-world environment. At the same time, they ensure the continuous collection of high-quality ocean data over long time series, which is essential for understanding ocean processes and for monitoring and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Furthermore, they promote knowledge transfer, facilitate national and international collaboration and, supported by adequate funding and consistent public policies, should contribute to the training of highly qualified personnel, thereby creating the conditions to position Portugal as an international leader in ocean observation.
Furthermore, this approach is crucial for driving the development of commercial applications and innovative services based on ocean data.
These infrastructures and systems are driving the technology sector and the blue economy by enabling continuous, high-resolution monitoring of the ocean.
What factors will be key to establishing Portugal and Europe as global leaders in ocean observation and related innovation in the coming years?
For Portugal and Europe to establish themselves as global leaders in this field, it will be crucial to ensure ongoing investment in scientific and technological infrastructure, promote open data and interoperability policies, and strengthen partnerships between academia, industry and the public sector.
It is equally important to support entrepreneurship and the development of emerging and innovative businesses, such as start-ups, in the field of blue technology, as well as to invest in training and attracting highly qualified talent, in line with European and international ocean strategies.
Portugal, in particular, has significant competitive advantages, notably its geographical position, its strong connection to the sea and its active involvement in international research networks, which should be strategically harnessed and enhanced through appropriate public policies and a long-term vision coordinated between the State and the various sectors of the blue economy and technology.
