Empowering the Next Generation: Merfish Project Highlights Young Involvement at EMD 2025
Cork, Ireland – May 22, 2025 – The European Maritime Day (EMD) 2025 provided an excellent opportunity for the Merfish Project to showcase its commitment to engaging younger generations in shaping a resilient blue economy. On May 22nd, during the “Young Generation Approach 4 Resilient Blue Economy” session, the Merfish Project, represented by Chiara De Santis of EFB, presented the FISHEUTRUST project and its innovative approach.
FISHEUTRUST, a project Merfish is proudly associated with, was highlighted for its success in enhancing awareness and knowledge about the fish supply chain among young people. The presentation, delivered alongside experts, young researchers, and professionals, emphasized the crucial role of youth engagement in ensuring the sustainability of the maritime sector.
A core concept discussed was the Living Labs approach, a cornerstone of the FISHEUTRUST project. This methodology was showcased for its remarkable capacity to engage diverse stakeholders and implement real-life solutions. Living Labs provide a practical and immersive environment for learning and collaboration, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the fisheries sector.
The session also featured inspiring opening remarks from the Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Dan Boyle, and Prime Minister Micheál Martin. Both leaders underscored the pivotal role of the blue economy in the region and the urgent need for advancing biodiversity conservation. They emphasized the intrinsic link between oceans, seas, economy, and society, highlighting the critical importance of adaptation to climate change within the sector. The potential for the Cork region to play a significant role in the energy transition, particularly through wind power, was also noted, being the 2nd windiest location in the world.
A subsequent “Fisheries and Ocean Dialogue: Policy Session,” introduced by Charlina Vitcheva (Director General for Maritime Affairs), featured a compelling panel discussion with Minister Timmy Dooley and EU Parliamentarians Le Callebnec and Clergeau. They passionately advocated for the introduction of a realistic yet ambitious EU Ocean Pact, underscoring the critical relevance of stakeholder engagement and fostering dialogue with fishing communities across the EU.
The Merfish Project remains dedicated to fostering a new generation of informed and engaged individuals who will drive innovation and sustainability in the blue economy. Our participation in EMD 2025, and the successful presentation of FISHEUTRUST, solidifies our commitment to empowering young people to become active participants in shaping the future of our oceans.
