Strategic recommendations aim to scale ocean observation technologies in Europe through stronger research and private sector collaboration

The European Marine Biological Resource Centre (EMBRC), alongside a group of leading research and policy partners, has released five strategic policy recommendations to reinforce technology development in marine observation and foster innovation in Europe. Developed as a result of insightful dialogues during the Blue Tech Europe conference at Sorbonne University in Paris (21-22 April 2026), these recommendations outline critical steps to increase collaboration between the academic and private sector for a more sustainable Blue Economy.

Supported by event participants MARCO-BOLO, TRICUSO, OBAMA-NEXT, BioGeoSea, SOOP, and the European Commission, the conference focused on showing the value of academic innovation for the private sector, highlighting the opportunity for Europe to invest in marine technology, and exploring how private companies can expand their role in ocean observation.

The strategic recommendations aim to accelerate the implementation of a long-term unified ocean observation framework that will allow the continent to retain its position as a Blue Economy leader.

The five key policy recommendations are:

“Today, Europe is highly dependent on sensors manufactured outside of the EU. Therefore, our ability to scale is directly impacted by increases in the geopolitical tensions and trade barriers that push prices up,” says Pade. “That’s why it is imperative that Europe start to leverage its own technological capabilities to manufacture the sensors we need to meet our specific ocean monitoring requirements.”

Scientific knowledge must be used to create scalable, investable, and market-ready solutions that can unlock the full value of Europe’s scientific excellence.

Close collaboration between academia and the private sector is essential to accelerate the development of marine observation technology, such as biodiversity sensors, in Europe. Involving industry partners at early stages ensures new monitoring technologies align with real-world market requirements, reinforcing Europe’s technological independence.

Europe must prioritise real-time data processing and digital tools, including AI and machine learning, to turn ocean observation information into actionable forecasts that inform policy and industry.

Much like daily weather forecasting transformed terrestrial planning, advanced marine observation will de-risk investments in the Blue Economy and lower operational costs for maritime sectors. For example, sharper ocean predictions can deliver vital economic protection for aquaculture and fisheries by preventing major losses from harmful algal blooms and identifying which species can thrive under changing environmental conditions.

Advancing ocean observation in Europe requires tackling a lack of commercial demand. Reliable marine data supports coastal safety, ecotourism, and sustainable aquaculture, but scaling these sectors means moving from project-based research to long-term solutions.

To drive growth, the European Commission and Member States must use public procurement and mission-driven programmes to guarantee long-term demand. Aligning cross-border markets, blending public and private finance, and accurately measuring the ocean economy will lower investment risk, attract capital, and deliver affordable, user-friendly technologies across sectors.

Innovation is not enough if it is not translated into real-world impact. Europe needs to address systemic misalignments and bridge the gap between scientific programmes and entrepreneurial skills so promising technologies don’t end up stalling.

While many successful start-ups emerge from academia, more regular dialogue between the research community and the private sector can strengthen the exchange of knowledge and technology and accelerate the development of new solutions. This would enable both sectors to better align their expertise, priorities, and capabilities.

As pressures on our marine environment increase, these recommendations aim to strengthen European innovation and ensure better marine resource management. Developing technologies designed for Europe’s unique challenges will support long-term benefits for science, industry, and society.