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An initiative under the European Water Resilience Strategy and the European Ocean Pact, this involves calls for evidence to help shape the future Ocean and Water Research and Innovation (R&I) Strategy.
Launched by the European Commission, this strategy aims to reinforce Europe’s leadership in ocean and water research, innovation and technologies, while supporting the competitiveness, resilience and strategic autonomy of the Union.
The first consultation focuses on ocean research and innovation priorities, including the protection and restoration of marine ecosystems, ocean observation, and the development of a sustainable blue economy. The second is dedicated to water resilience and addresses topics such as freshwater resource management, water efficiency and reuse, and the development of innovative solutions for sustainable water management.
Together, the two initiatives will support the development of a “source-to-sea” approach, which considers rivers, groundwater, lakes, coastal areas and oceans as a single interconnected system. This approach enables more effective responses to shared challenges such as pollution and flooding, moving beyond fragmented interventions.
The outcomes of the consultations will help guide future European Union investments in research and innovation, including under the Horizon Europe programme and the European Competitiveness Fund. The feedback will also support improved coordination between EU, national and regional programmes, enhance monitoring and forecasting systems, and accelerate the deployment of innovative solutions on the market.
Stakeholders are invited to contribute via the European Commission’s “Have Your Say” portal by 2 August 2026.