The MPA Community team took part in the Mission Ocean & Waters EU Danish Presidency Conference on 23–24 September 2025 at Nyborg, Denmark, hosted by the University of Southern Denmark. Across two days, the conference gathered policymakers, researchers, students, local communities and practitioners to accelerate implementation of the EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters” in its second phase and advance the operationalisation of the EU Ocean Pact.
We were present with an exhibition stand, meeting peers and showcasing how the MPA Community supports knowledge sharing and collaboration on effective marine protection.
On Day 2, Ivana Stojanovic from our team moderated “Parallel workshops 2 – Track 1: Protect and restore marine and freshwater ecosystems,” a session focused on practical strategies and innovations—from nature-based solutions to community engagement and policy tools—driving measurable restoration impact across Europe. Inspired by the introductory presentations, discussions focused on ideas and action points coming directly from participants and contributing directly to the Conference Roadmap “from the community for the community”. With focus on ensuring better communication, engaging channels that are more adequate for the youth, as well as ensuring real engagement of the communities in the actions addressing their real needs, it was highlighted the added value of lessons learned through projects contributing to the MPA Community Network, ensuring that practice-based knowledge informs future policy and action.
Thank you to the organisers and speakers for a high-energy, solutions-oriented programme, and to everyone who stopped by our stand to connect. If you’d like to continue the conversation—or share your own restoration case studies—join the MPA Community Network and post in the forum.
