The Irish Portuguese Business Network will host a major sustainability conference in Lisbon on 17 March, bringing together experts, investors and environmental advocates to discuss the future of the ocean economy. The event will take place at the Oriente Green Campus of Universidade Europeia and is free to attend, although online registration is required.
This year’s theme, Ocean The Blue Economy, highlights the growing strategic importance of marine resources for both Portugal and Ireland. Organisers say the conference aims to strengthen cooperation between the two countries through shared scientific knowledge, innovation and sustainable investment practices linked to ocean industries.
The ocean has long connected Portugal and Ireland through trade routes and maritime heritage. In recent years, collaboration has increasingly focused on the blue economy, which includes sectors such as renewable marine energy, sustainable fisheries, coastal tourism, ocean technology and marine conservation. According to the network, the conference will explore how these sectors can contribute to long term economic growth while addressing environmental pressures.
The programme opens with a panel organised in partnership with Ethical Assembly, a climate and social justice organisation. Christopher Storey of Sea Shepherd Global will join André Almeida Santos from Indico Capital Partners to discuss new developments in ocean conservation and blue economy investment. Their session will examine how technological innovation and private capital are shaping marine protection strategies.
As the conference coincides with Saint Patrick’s Day, organisers describe it as both symbolic and strategic. The timing reflects the deep cultural and economic links between the two countries, while reinforcing the urgency of advancing sustainable ocean policies during the United Nations Ocean Decade.
A second panel will address the climate risks facing coastal infrastructure, an issue that has gained attention following recent storms along the Portuguese coastline. Experts including Professor Emília Duarte, Antónia Correia from KIPT COLAB and Pedro Pardal Monteiro of the Portuguese Surfing Federation will analyse the vulnerability of tourism, public infrastructure and coastal ecosystems to extreme weather events.
The conference will conclude with a forward looking session on marine protection technology. Artificial intelligence specialist Lee Bristow, alongside academic representatives from Católica Porto Business School and the University of Coimbra, will explore how digital tools and data driven models can enhance ocean monitoring and resilience planning.
Organisers note that while attendance is free, participants may opt into a networking lunch for a fee of 25 euros. The event marks the seventh sustainability conference hosted the Irish Portuguese Business Network and underscores Lisbon’s growing role as a hub for climate dialogue and blue economy innovation.
