However, some attendees of the Ocean Days event left sceptical about the degree of meaningful implementation resulting from such gatherings. It is important to translate high level discussions with European ocean leaders into practical tools and mechanisms that can result in noticeable change.

One of the major policy discussions at the event focused on the European Water Resilience Strategy to address escalating water stress. This topic is prescient given that half of Europe’s river basins expected to face shortages by 2030. While the Water Framework Directive (WFD) exists, poor enforcement has hindered progress.

Recent EU efforts include the Water Resilience Initiative, a European Parliament report urging water integration into policies and a Knowledge Innovation Community launching in 2026. Financing remains a challenge, with an estimated €63bn ($68bn) in annual investment, but a proposed dedicated fund could bridge gaps. The EU’s leadership in water resilience could shape global policies for sustainable resource management and climate adaptation.

The thriving Blue Economy of Europe offers social as well as financial benefit. Turning Blue, an EU-funded project, is one example of its potential. The scheme helps young former inmates find employment in Europe’s blue economy, addressing both labour shortages and high reoffending rates. Operating in Portugal, the Netherlands, Romania, Cyprus and Italy, the initiative provides training, mentorship and employer connections in industries such as aquaculture and coastal tourism.

Many young offenders struggle to secure jobs due to stigma and lack of life skills, making reintegration difficult. Through VR experiences, industry talks and hands-on guidance, the programme introduces new career paths, aiming to break the cycle of recidivism.

A recent study in Nature examines sustainable marine development in 15 EU coastal countries from 2012 to 2022, assessing weak and strong sustainability in the blue economy. Using Sustainable Development Goal 14 indicators, it evaluated national progress in balancing economic growth with environmental preservation. Findings show that while seven countries achieved both weak and strong sustainability, seven progressed only under weak sustainability and one made no progress.

The report highlights challenges in policy enforcement, data limitations and financial constraints in achieving ocean health. Estonia, Lithuania and Poland led in sustainable progress, while the Netherlands lagged. The study highlights the need for more comprehensive data, balanced sustainability measures and stronger governance to ensure equitable and lasting marine economic development.

The European Ocean Pact proposes a comprehensive framework integrating environmental sustainability, economic growth and maritime security. It emphasises restoring marine ecosystems, protecting biodiversity through Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), tackling marine pollution and strengthening enforcement of the Water Framework and Marine Strategy Directives.

The pact supports the blue economy by promoting decarbonisation in shipping, expanding offshore wind and blue carbon projects and ensuring a fair transition for fisheries and aquaculture. It also enhances maritime security by protecting submarine cables, monitoring illegal fishing and strengthening EU naval and coast guard capabilities.

Key initiatives include the Green Ports Initiative, harmonised maritime spatial planning and international agreements on sustainable fisheries and plastic waste reduction. A roadmap and mid-term assessment will ensure progress.