Representatives from AZTI, CLS, EUSPA, and Satlink discussed how blue tech enhances sustainability and competitiveness in the sector.
Europêche
European companies and fisheries presented their technological innovations and latest adaptations in the blue industry during the event Competitive Blue Tech for Sustainable High Seas Fisheries, organized by MEP Isabelle Le Callennec in collaboration with the European Fisheries Federation Europêche.
Due to the European Commission developing its 'Future Clean Industrial Deal' and the 'Ocean Pact', the event helped demonstrate how satellite data, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced maritime equipment are transforming the management of oceans and the fisheries sector, Europêche assured.
"Operating mainly in distant waters, far from Europe, the EU long-distance fleet invests in and relies on Blue Tech for efficiency, monitoring, and sustainability. The companies present at this event embody the core values of the Ocean Pact," said Anne-France Mattlet, Deputy Managing Director of Europêche.
Additionally, she assured: "By supporting the EU fleet, we ensure that these companies, with their cutting-edge technology and high European standards, continue to lead ocean global governance, preventing lower-standard competitors from gaining ground."
Europêche led the first panel, which featured representatives from the Basque Technology Center AZTI, CLS, EUSPA, and Satlink (representing Marine Instruments and Zunibal), who discussed how blue tech enhances sustainability and competitiveness in the sector.
Researchers from AZTI have launched a new tool to help marine planning professionals and competent authorities apply ecosystem-based approach principles more effectively in the marine spatial planning of uses (MSP). This tool helps to evaluate whether environmental, social, economic, and governance aspects.
Moreover, the Spanish technology company Satlink has developed smart buoys that will be used in a pioneering project for beach regeneration. Specifically, the OceanDepth buoy uses an integrated sonar designed to accurately measure the layers of marine sediment accumulated on the seabed in the coastal environment.
The second panel, led by SEA Europe, featured APINA’s air-freezing system that ensures high-quality tuna, Pontos AI’s carbon footprint reduction system, and the satellite connectivity service offered by Thalos’ OceanBox. Lastly, it included the presence of the Basque Maritime Cluster and its fishing vessels.
Polyvios Eliofotou, member of the cabinet of Costas Kadis and Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, who also assisted at the event assured: "EU has the chance to be able to find its own way and shall be proud of its blue tech companies."
