The numbers speak clearly: it is a real success for the EU Mission Ocean and Waters. Since its launch in 2022, over 1000 actions for the ocean have been carried out. In total, these actions coming from individuals and organisations have mobilised more than €8 billion. This result marks a growing commitment across Europe to safeguard marine and freshwater ecosystems.
Launched in September 2021, the EU Mission ‘Restore our Ocean and Waters’ aims to protect and restore the health of our ocean and waters by 2030 through research and innovation, citizen engagement and investments in the sustainable blue economy.
The Mission supports regional engagement and cooperation through area-based “Lighthouses” in major sea and river basins: Atlantic-Arctic, Mediterranean Sea, Baltic-North Sea, and Danube-Black Sea. Over 200 demonstration sites are already operational under these projects, with more to come.
The decarbonisation of ships, nature-based solutions, local clean-ups, artistic initiatives, and education campaigns are just examples of the actions that have been accepted under the Mission Charter. Businesses, cities, regions, national ministries, universities, schools, NGOs, and individuals are involved — a vibrant community working together for a healthy and resilient ocean and waters.
There are actions from 179 countries, over 100 private enterprises, 53 regional authorities, and 91 cities and local authorities, and the numbers continue to grow.
According to Costas Kadis, Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, “Reaching over 1000 actions under the Mission Charter is a clear sign that Europe is mobilising to protect and restore our ocean and waters. From coastal communities to cities and regions, research centres, businesses and schools are stepping up to shape a healthier, more resilient blue planet.”
Over 1,000 initiatives to protect and restore marine
