Event Overview:

WaterborneTP initiated important discussions on implementing its long-term strategy with its members, during the IREG meeting on the 19th and 20th of June 2024. These conversations were centered around Research, Development, and Innovation (RD&I), particularly focusing on digitalization within the waterborne sector. Key discussion points included:

1. Digitalization Benefits: Various solutions offered by digitalization for the waterborne sector were explored. Objectives discussed ranged from enhancing safety and sustainability, further integrating waterborne transport into the logistics chain, to ensuring a resilient and competitive European waterborne sector.
2. Standardized Definitions: The growing need for common definitions in areas such as digitalization, resilience, and blue growth or blue economy was emphasized.
3. Adaptive Strategies: The importance of developing resilient strategies capable of adapting to policy changes or disruptive events was highlighted.

Special Contributions:

• Hildegunn McLernon received special thanks for chairing the digitalization efforts.
• Prof. Elias Yfantis from the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute chaired the task of updating the missions and visions, guiding toward the objectives for 2040 and 2050 in areas such as Ships & Shipping, Ports & Logistics, and Blue Growth. At WaterborneTP, he has undertaken the role of preparing the updated Strategy Research Agenda (SRA) for the next period. The SRA was initially published in 2019, and the updated version will be presented to the new European Commission in February 2025. This process includes communication with major stakeholders from academia, research, and industry.

For more information and further updates, stay informed about the progress of SeaTecHub project, activities and contributions to a more sustainable blue economy!

Welcome to Waterborne – Setting the agenda for Maritime Research in Europe – waterborne.eu

About Waterborne Technology Platform: 

WATERBORNE TP has been set up as an industry-oriented Technology Platform to establish a continuous dialogue between all waterborne stakeholders, such as classification societies, shipbuilders, shipowners, maritime equipment manufacturers, infrastructure and service providers, universities or research institutes, and with the EU Institutions, including Member States (www.waterborne.eu). The members of Waterborne TP comprise members as well as associated members from both maritime and inland navigation countries, representing about 19 Member States. In addition, the Associations member of the Waterborne Technology Platform represent the broader waterborne sector throughout the entire EU.