The All-Atlantic Ocean Research and Innovation Alliance (AAORIA) Forum
The All-Atlantic Ocean Research and Innovation Alliance (AAORIA) Forum is an initiative that aims to understand the relationship between the ocean and climate, protect marine ecosystems, combat pollution, promote sustainable fisheries, enhance mapping efforts, promote sustainable ocean economies, and increase ocean literacy. It was established through science diplomacy efforts that brought together countries on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
On November 21st, 2023, the forum was held in Cape Town, South Africa. It was attended by diverse representatives from different sectors such as government, research communities, private sector, NGOs, and global Atlantic Ocean sectors.
Its objective was to align their respective efforts with the aspirations of the AAORIA Declaration. The event had an African theme in order to better involve African countries in the Atlantic Ocean that had active research and innovation activities.
Elisa Ravagnan, from NORCE, and coordinator of the ASTRAL Project, represented ASTRAL at the event and presented "ASTRAL: Food Systems for the Future."
Marissa Brink-Hull, an early career scientist and the Youth Atlantic Ambassador from UCT, was also present and shared her work at the event. She shared how an ECS has impacted her career and how great it is to be part of an interdisciplinary project like ASTRAL.
Aimee Cloete also gave a presentation at the event. She was part of an ASTRAL Ocean Expedition and her experience inspired her to join the multidisciplinary Applied Ocean Science Masters Programme. Her thesis is linked to the ASTRAL Project.
Additionally, the forum aimed to increase the impact of ocean literacy and demonstrate the societal value of Atlantic Ocean research. It also had the goal of fostering partnerships between government, civil society, the private sector, and research communities in the implementation of the AAORIA Declaration.
The societal impact of the various AAORIA initiatives will become crucial in the next few years. Civil society, youth, and early career professionals will play a vital role in future-proofing the AAORIA Declaration.
The forum was majorly successful in contributing to a shortlist of AAORIA priorities for the coming year, providing valuable input into the implementation plan, endorsing new AAORIA partners, and attracting supporters, emphasising society and industry partners. Overall, the event was a great success and an excellent opportunity to showcase the ASTRAL Project at a hugely relevant event.