From 14 to 16 June 2021, more than 400 participants from 50 countries and over 70 speakers and panelists gathered online for the 3-day European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet) Open Conference 2021 to discuss EMODnet achievements, partnerships and vision for the coming decade. The timing for this event could not be better, with 2021 as ‘super year’ for ocean, biodiversity, ecosystem, environment and climate with the official kick-off of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, the recent 47th G7 Leaders’ Summit, related Climate & Environment Ministers meetings and Science & Technology dialogues. The event was ably moderated by Paul Rose - National Geographic Pristine Seas Expedition leader, Broadcaster and a well-known public figure in the field of environment and exploration.
A full Conference report is available here: EMODnet Open Conference Final Report.
With more than 45 presentations and panels, the event was divided in 6 sessions, in addition to breakout group discussions and the presentation of about 55 community posters and pitches. A virtual exhibition was also an integral part of the event, with its rich content and information on the diverse activities of EMODnet, resources and services, as well as those from related initiatives, including European Ocean Observing community efforts.
In the Conference opening session, Virginijus Sinkevičius, European Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries explained, “EMODnet has become a reference - not just in the EU but globally - and its importance will only grow in the future as marine knowledge is at the core of our fight against climate change….”
A full High Level Summary of the EMODnet Conference 2021 is available on the EMODnet Central Portal.
The EMODnet Conference 2021 agenda, speakers bios, session recordings and powerpoint presentations are available at www.emodnetconference2021.eu
The EMODnet Conference 2021 report includes summaries of EMODnet Jamboree workshops on Ocean Best Practice, Citizen Science, the European Atlas of the Seas, and the EC Ocean Observation event.
Twitter: @EMODnet #EMODnetConference