Cobh Champions Ocean Knowledge to Drive Coastal Business Success: Part of EMD In My Country 2025
As part of European Maritime Day (EMD) In My Country 2025, Coastal Success Through Ocean Knowledge brought together marine experts, business leaders, policymakers, and students for an evening of discussion, creativity, and connection.
Organised in partnership with EurOcean, JPI Oceans, EuroGOOS, EMSEA, the Marine Institute, Cobh and Harbour Chamber and the Port of Cork the event featured a high-profile panel discussion, an interactive workshop for Transition Year students, and a lively networking session along Cobh’s iconic quays.
The evening opened with a welcome from Toddy Stafford, President of the Cobh & Harbour Chamber, followed by an introduction from Ruth Higgins of the European Centre for Information on Marine Science and Technology. Keynote speaker Majbritt Bolton-Warberg, Blue Economy Programme Manager at the Marine Institute, shared insights on the business benefits of sustainable ocean practices.
The expert panel included:
• Liam Curran, Senior Technologist at Enterprise Ireland
• Dr. Jessica Giannoumis, Ireland Aquatech Community Manager, Hatch Blue
• Cian Ryan, Project Manager, Green Rebel
Panelists highlighted practical opportunities for SMEs in coastal regions to engage with the growing blue economy.
Meanwhile, TY students took part in a zine-making workshop, using art and storytelling to reflect on Cobh’s coastal identity, ocean literacy, and sustainability. Their creative outputs will contribute to a wider conversation on community-led climate awareness.
The evening concluded with a Networking Bingo session at the quays, sparking lively exchanges between local entrepreneurs, marine professionals, and civic leaders.
Toddy Stafford President of the Cobh & Harbour Chamber, said, “This event showcased Cobh as a leading voice in coastal resilience and innovation, we’re proud to be part of a wider European effort to link ocean knowledge with economic growth.”
The conversation doesn’t end here. A post-event report titled “Pathways to Coastal Success” will be published in the coming weeks and launched at the Chamber’s Summer Networking Event on 19 June aboard a cruise around Cork Harbour.
For more information, visit www.eurocean.org or contact info@cobhharbourchamber.ie.
