The Algarve Centre for Marine Sciences (CCMAR) is set to launch the Marine Observatory (OMA) this Friday, a collaborative platform designed to foster innovation and sustainable development in the region by connecting science with business.
Daniela Fazenda, the initiative's coordinator, emphasized the Observatory's goal to "place sustainability at the heart of economic development", creating a synergy between scientific research and corporate practices. The launch event will take place at the University of Algarve in Faro.
The initiative is rooted in the European Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, which evaluate a company's sustainability, social responsibility, and management performance. Fazenda highlighted the lack of industry categorization as a key motivator for the Observatory's creation, especially with ESG compliance becoming mandatory for companies by 2026 based on their turnover.
The Marine Observatory of the Algarve aims to serve as a hub for collaboration between marine researchers and businesses, particularly those in the tourism sector, to promote sustainable practices and protect marine ecosystems. The first phase will focus on partnerships with hotel groups to develop sustainable solutions addressing current environmental challenges.
Five pathways have been established to engage businesses:
- Turnkey Project: Offering ready-to-implement measures like waste and water management.
- Research Support: Leveraging ongoing projects.
- Training: Educating on sustainable practices, including marine biodiversity.
- Citizen Science: Making research accessible to the public through films, exhibitions, and activities.
- Collective Action: Encouraging collaborative efforts towards sustainability.
The Observatory has already garnered support from investors and the Algarve's Regional Coordination and Development Commission, and is applying for the United Nations' Ocean Decade label, aiming to position the Algarve as a model for blue economy and responsible tourism.
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