About the Innovation Platform and its objectives

The Innovation Platform for Sustainable Sea and Ocean Solutions (ISSS) aims to accelerate the development, application, and implementation of new technologies and materials in industrial processes, focusing on both established and emerging blue economy sectors. By leveraging infrastructure investments and integrating existing structures, the platform aspires to become an efficient provider of applied research and development (R&D) for sea and ocean solutions, addressing the entire value chain of a sustainable blue economy.

Driven by the vision of a sustainable and circular European green-blue economy, ISSS supports the strategic goals of the European Union for 2030 and the European Green Deal. This vision emphasizes the importance of healthy, productive oceans and sustainable resource management, aligning with Europe’s leadership aspirations in global maritime technology. By developing innovative solutions for the marine and subsea industries, the platform contributes to the sustainable global use of oceans and supports the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).

Competitiveness

The competition for marine resources, driven by the global demand for food, materials and energy is intensifying. To maintain and strengthen its leadership, Europe must continue to pioneer innovative and sustainable sea and ocean technologies. Although Europe’s maritime industry is currently a global leader, it faces growing competition from the USA and China, underscoring the need for continued technological advancement.

Leadership

Sustainability is the cornerstone of Europe’s unique position in maritime technologies. By prioritizing environmentally responsible practices, the EU can assert global leadership in delivering innovative technologies, services, and expertise for the sustainable use of oceans—offering a clear alternative to the environmentally harmful practices of some global competitors.

Protection

Sustainable exploitation of marine resources is essential to ensuring Europe’s future food and resource sovereignty. ISSS focuses on the responsible utilization of ocean resources, safeguarding the long-term interests of the EU.

Sovereignty

Maintaining European competitiveness and leadership requires cutting-edge infrastructure and highly innovative technologies suited to the challenging maritime environment. Key technologies, including robotics, sensors, communication systems, electronics, and artificial intelligence, will be developed to enhance Europe’s technological independence in the maritime sector.