Finnova staff with Stewart Sarkozy-Banoczy CEO of World Ocean Council.
- A one-day forum in Brussels explored the EU Ocean Pact, FuelEU Maritime and cross-sector pathways for a competitive and sustainable blue economy
On 3 February 2026, the 3rd European Blue Economy Conference brought together EU institutions, policymakers, industry leaders and civil society to discuss progress and next steps towards a more sustainable, competitive and resilient blue economy. The programme addressed key EU priorities including the EU Ocean Pact, FuelEU Maritime, and cross-sector collaboration across ports, fisheries, aquaculture and coastal tourism. European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, gave the opening speech.
ONE-BLUE had a presence at the event and was represented through its partner FINNOVA Foundation. During the conference, Pilar Santamaría, Head of Communications and Public Affairs at FINNOVA Foundation, moderated a roundtable discussion, contributing to the day’s exchange on how to strengthen coordination and accelerate implementation across blue economy sectors.
Throughout the day, participants explored how Europe can advance ocean health and marine protection while scaling innovation, investment and competitiveness, in a context shaped by climate urgency and growing geopolitical complexity.
Pilar Santamaría, Head of Communications and Public Affairs at FINNOVA at the Blue Economy conference panel with MEP and member of the Committee on Fisheries (PECH) Paulo do Nascimento Cabral, Carles Rúa Costa, Head of Innovation, ort de Barcelona and Jaap Gebraad Secretary General, Waterborne Technology Platform.
Finnova staff with Aziz Bougho