CircBio was delighted to support and participate in the recent PHAROS Blue Economy Innovation and Skills Forum, delivered in collaboration with PHAROS, EduGreen Connect, and the Circular Bioeconomy Education Centre (CBEC).
The forum brought together researchers, educators, industry representatives, community stakeholders, and sustainability advocates to explore the future of Ireland’s blue economy and the skills, innovation, and partnerships required to support its continued growth.
A Global Perspective from Wayne Murphy, Hatch Blue
A key highlight of the event was the keynote presentation delivered by Wayne Murphy, Co-Founder of Hatch Blue. Wayne shared valuable insights into emerging opportunities within the global blue economy, discussing the role of innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable practices in shaping the future of marine industries. His inspiring closing message, “The future is bright, and it is definitely blue,” reinforced the enormous potential of the sector.
Innovation Mapping Session
Following the keynote, participants moved into an Innovation Mapping Workshop focused on exploring the future potential of Ireland’s blue economy.
The interactive session invited stakeholders to examine emerging opportunities across three key sectors: fisheries and aquaculture, seaweed, and coastal tourism. Through collaborative discussions, attendees explored areas for innovation, identified barriers to growth, and considered strategies for strengthening sector development.
By bringing together diverse perspectives from industry, research, and community stakeholders, the workshop aimed to translate ambitious ideas into practical actions that can help drive the continued development of Ireland’s blue economy.
Blue Skills Development: EduGreen Connect Platform Demo
The forum also provided an opportunity to showcase recent developments within EduGreen Connect platform, a growing digital hub designed to support learners, educators, employers, and industry stakeholders across sustainability-focused sectors.
During the presentation, attendees were introduced to the improved Blue Economy sector, which has been developed to provide greater visibility of educational pathways, training opportunities, and careers. The platform aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by helping users better understand the skills and competencies required for careers within the blue economy and wider sustainability sectors.
In addition, EduGreen Connect presented a preview of the upcoming Employer Section, a significant new feature that will allow organisations to create profiles, promote their activities, and publish employment and placement opportunities directly through the platform. This development will strengthen connections between industry and emerging talent, making it easier for employers to engage with learners while helping job seekers discover meaningful opportunities within the sustainability and blue economy sectors.
CircBio recognises the importance of creating stronger links between research, education, industry, and communities. Platforms such as EduGreen Connect play a valuable role in supporting knowledge exchange, workforce development, and collaboration across Ireland’s green and blue economy ecosystems.
Irish Living Lab: An Innovative Space for Community Contribution
The event concluded with a presentation on the PHAROS Irish Living Lab, an innovative co-creation and knowledge-sharing space that connects researchers, communities, and stakeholders in efforts to support healthier marine ecosystems. The Living Lab approach encourages collaborative problem-solving and provides opportunities for communities to actively contribute to research and innovation that benefits both people and the environment.
The PHAROS Blue Economy Innovation and Skills Forum demonstrated the value of partnership, knowledge exchange, and collective action in addressing sustainability challenges while also unlocking new opportunities for economic and community development.
CircBio would like to thank all speakers, participants, and partner organisations who contributed their expertise and insights throughout the event. Through continued collaboration, research, and innovation, we can help build a more resilient, sustainable, and thriving blue economy for future generations.
