The University of Malta Maritime Platform, composed of academics, researchers and experts in marine and maritime subjects, is organising the UMP international conference on Innovation in Marine & Maritime Sustainable Developments: Research and Applications to be held from 7 to 9 May 2025.
This cross-cutting multidisciplinary international conference shall involve a wide range of stakeholders in marine and maritime innovation, research and development toward achieving responsible sustainability.
A much needed conference possible through the support of various entities including first among others the Parliamentary Secretariat for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation. Additional support from the Ministry for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works and Transport Malta bring to the fore the support from relevant entities at National level that believe in progress through developing knowledge.
This conference welcomes local to international contributions from academics, researchers, practitioners, industry representatives, managers, law/policymakers, experts and younger generations to discuss solutions aimed at addressing the challenges facing the marine and maritime sectors. The conference will present the latest research and technological developments that contribute to sustainable practices, effective resource management, and environmental stewardship. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with emerging trends, share insights, and discuss strategies to drive forward integrative sustainable development of marine and maritime industries.
As global connectivity accelerates, the integration of advanced digital technologies emerges as crucial for fostering sustainable progress in these industries. This thematic section investigates the pivotal role of Information Technology (IT) and digitisation in revolutionising the marine and maritime sectors. The accompanying discussion will focus on how innovative IT solutions are addressing significant challenges, enhancing operational efficiency, and bolstering safety and environmental stewardship.
Key areas of exploration include the deployment of Internet of Things (IoT) devices for real-time data collection and monitoring, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning for predictive analytics, and the utilisation of big data to refine decision-making processes. The session will also address the impact of digital twins and simulation models in optimising vessel design, navigation, fuel consumption, and emissions. Emphasis will also be placed on cybersecurity measures essential for safeguarding maritime infrastructures from digital threats and the use of automated underwater vehicles (AUVs) and advanced sensor networks for comprehensive oceanographic studies and habitat monitoring. This session focuses on engineering solutions through mechanical, electrical, software, IT and AI innovations and applicable technological advancements for sustainable green maritime transport and operations from ports to offshore.
Current and future maritime advancements need to be critically addressed, where maritime economy, social justice and marine environmental needs are challenged from an exponential growth scenario and climate change.
Energy efficiency; pollution avoidance (noise, chemical, plastics, light); treating biofouling of vessels; stopping alien species transportation; management of spatial trajectories and activities in consideration of the marine ecosystem and its conservation; assessing industry developments and increasing training; managing exploitations, fisheries, maritime tourism, explorations and extractions all point toward requirements of relevant educational programmes, innovation, research and implementations for future sustainable bioeconomy endeavours respecting marine ecosystem services, essential for biodiversity and marine environment preservation. Advancing awareness and promotion of the needs and benefits of marine and maritime sustainable development are essential to any strategy and way forward to achieve the transformation and progress required in the maritime sectors.
Funding for sustainable Blue Growth, encouraging private/public partnerships for sustained training, awareness, education and research. Decarbonisation of maritime activities and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) requirements confront past practices with current to future ways of working. MASS (Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships); The Emission Trading Scheme; Digitalisation; Training and updating of seafarers’ knowledge; Maritime skills; Conservation of marine resources and environment; Inland Waterways; Motorways of the Seas; The Global Maritime Acquis and many more aspects demand urgent attention Regulations that are clear, valid, and implementable through accountability and enforcement are vital to effectively reach sustainability goals. SMEs focusing on various requirements aid the urgent demands. Involvement of non-European countries to follow European maritime legal and sustainable goals spreading the efficacy of sustainable practices is also considered.
The coastal and marine environments are facing unprecedented rapidly accelerating challenges driven by climate change, anthropogenic activities, and shifting marine dynamics. These changes are reshaping ecosystems, affecting species distributions, and impacting vital human activities which are dependent on these environments, such as fisheries, renewable energy and tourism. This session will be led by a multidisciplinary group of experts including environmental scientists, marine biologists, coastal engineers, and renewable energy specialists to delve into the complex concept of resilience in these rapidly evolving contexts.
Several critical issues are explored in this conference, such as:
- the management of marine ecosystems in the face of hazards such as severe weather conditions,
- increasing temperatures,
- pollution,
- depleting biodiversity,
- increased resource exploitation and
- coastal erosion.
Participants shall have the opportunity to discuss strategies for integrating marine energy sources with conservation efforts, addressing overfishing and habitat destruction, and enhancing the resilience of coastal communities through nature-based solutions and community-based knowledge. By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and sharing cutting-edge research and case studies, this session seeks to advance an understanding of and response to the dynamic challenges facing coastal and marine environments, ultimately contributing to more effective management and protection strategies in an era of rapid environmental change.
There exists a fundamental interaction between society and governance in building a sustainable and equitable future for the marine and maritime sectors. Effective governance structures are essential for implementing and enforcing policies that ensure that the regulatory framework reflects current developments. At the same time, social influences and public advocacy shape these policies by informing key issues such as human rights at sea and the need for technological advancements. This dynamic interplay ensures that governance frameworks are not only responsive to current challenges but also aligned with the broader goals of fostering a cohesive approach to the complex issues facing the marine and maritime industries.
This important conference will provide best exposure and exchange of experiences and discoveries to come out with useful recommendations for improving best practice and awareness for sustainable growth. For this reason conference outputs, such as publications that may be shared and useful for local to regional developments, are being supported by the Environment Resources Authority (ERA) and Malta Enterprise.
Registration is open via this link.
For further information please visit the conference website. For further information on the UMP and CBRG-UM contact Prof. Adriana Vella by email.
