How can sailing become a driver for scientific discovery, climate action, and innovation? At this year’s European Maritime Day (EMD 2025) in Cork, Ireland, this question took center stage – particularly during the workshop “Sailing for Science and Climate Action”. The session highlighted how meaningful progress emerges when science, technology, and seafaring come together in a spirit of interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-sectoral exchange.
At the heart of the discussion was a shared belief: transformative solutions for our ocean and climate future can only emerge through open dialogue and cooperation across disciplines, sectors, and institutions. This is exactly where SOOP – Shaping an Ocean Of Possibilities plays a crucial role – as a platform that enables innovation by connecting people, ideas, and expertise across boundaries.
The workshop featured an inspiring lineup of speakers: Lucy Hunt (The Ocean Race), Jaqueline Grawe (Team Holcim-PRB), Remy Denos (DG MARE – European Commission), and Toste, with Niall McDonough (Marine Institute / JPI Oceans) moderating the discussion. Together, they explored how sailing serves as a powerful platform for real-time ocean data collection, public engagement, and multi-stakeholder collaboration.
Beyond the workshop, SOOP – Shaping an Ocean Of Possibilities welcomed many curious minds at its exhibition booth. The booth quickly became a vibrant hub for networking, spontaneous conversations, and idea-sharing – a clear sign of the growing interest in open, collaborative approaches to tackling ocean and climate challenges.
