BlueActionAA took part in the ICES Annual Science Conference 2026, held from 15 to 18 September in Brest, France. The conference brought together marine scientists from around the world to present new research, exchange ideas and build long‑term collaborations across disciplines and regions.
On the second day, the programme featured the session From Projects to Impact, which examined how research projects can move from results to real‑world change for the ocean. Ten Horizon Europe and EU Mission Ocean projects were invited to give short pitches, each designed to deliver clear messages, practical insights and direct engagement with the audience.
BlueActionAA was represented by Tania Montoto Martínez from the PLOCAN – Oceanic Platform of the Canary Islands, who presented the project’s approach to supporting community‑led action and transition agendas across the Atlantic. The session also included contributions from BlueMissionAA2030, BlueMissionBANOS2030, BioProtect, SeaDOTS, CLEAR‑WATER, BlueActionBANOS, MarineGuardian, PHAROS, ACTNOW and MECCAM.
The pitches were followed by a plenary discussion on what it takes to turn project results into lasting impact and where projects can achieve more by working together. A common reflection emerging from the session was that each project makes a valuable contribution to the wider collective Mission Ocean effort. While individual achievements are important, lasting impact depends on what remains after a project ends: stronger networks, new collaborations, shared knowledge and the capacity to inspire further action across communities, sectors and regions. The session will contribute to a short Projects to Impact summary for communication to relevant policy audiences after the conference.
Throughout the event, BlueActionAA also shared an exhibition booth with BlueMissionAA2030, BlueActionBANOS and BlueMissionBANOS2030, stimulat
