Important New Islands Matter OCEAN Workshop Date Confirmed
The date for a new series of workshops focused on the O.C.E.A.N research theme of our UArctic Thematic Network has been confirmed for February 20, 2026.
The workshops will be spread over two days and will involve a mix of meetings with people involved in the fisheries in Shetland and discussions around the potential for a larger research project around topics such as innovative marine planning; the potential for science tourism; the nature of youth involvement in fishing and other ocean-based activities; the importance of tradition, and place, to the community (e.g., the connection between heritage and the fisheries); and connections between our northern and Arctic island communities that engage with the ocean and its fisheries - plus wherever else our group experience takes us. We hope to involve some creative practices, too.
The key outcomes of the event will be:
- Focused Research Questions: For example, Moving from "Blue Economy" to specific inquiries about community ownership of Blue Economy assets.
- Defined Work Packages: A structural breakdown of the OCEAN project ready for grant insertion.
- Partner Commitments: specific roles assigned to partners
On Friday 20th February 1.30pm - 2.30pm there will be a free public Islands Matter online seminar titled OCEAN: Cross-Pollination of Ideas for Resilient Futures. The discussion will examine how yesterday’s themes can be combined to create thriving island communities and help them grapple with climate change, youth retention, and service provision.
The seminar is open to all to register - researchers, students and members of the public are all welcome to join the discussion.