The Algarve Centre for Marine Sciences (CCMAR) is set to launch the Marine Observatory (OMA) this Friday, a pioneering platform designed to foster collaboration between science and businesses. This initiative aims to drive innovation and sustainable development in the region.
Daniela Fazenda, the coordinator of the initiative, shared with Lusa news agency that the Observatory, to be unveiled at the University of Algarve in Faro, seeks to create a synergy between scientific research and the corporate sector. The goal is to place sustainability at the heart of economic growth, aligning with the European Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards.
The ESG framework evaluates companies on their sustainability, social responsibility, and management practices. Fazenda highlighted the Observatory's role in addressing the lack of industry categorization, especially as ESG compliance becomes mandatory for companies by 2026 based on their turnover.
The Algarve Marine Observatory is envisioned as a hub for collaboration between marine researchers and businesses, particularly those in the tourism sector. It aims to encourage strategic partnerships that enhance corporate sustainability and protect the Algarve's marine ecosystems.
Initial efforts will focus on partnerships with hotel groups to develop sustainable solutions tailored to current environmental challenges. "Our initial target is the hospitality industry, given its significant interaction with the marine environment," Fazenda noted.
The Observatory also offers access to CCMAR's existing knowledge and scientific resources, available to all businesses based on their specific needs. Five pathways have been established to engage companies: the Turnkey Project, research support, training programs, citizen science initiatives, and collective action.
Supported by the Algarve's Regional Coordination and Development Commission and seeking recognition under the United Nations' Ocean Decade, the Observatory is already attracting investor interest. "We aim to solidify the Algarve's position as a model for blue economy and responsible tourism," Fazenda concluded.
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