‘Intensive’ R&D needed for marine economy, Commission says

The European Commission has given its backing to innovative areas of the marine economy, including biotechnology and renewable energy generation, as drivers of economic growth.

“European leadership in these sectors depends on intensive research, technology development and innovation,” said education commissioner Tibor Navracsics in a foreword to a Commission report on the marine economy, published on 16 May.

The report, which Navracsics said will guide the Commission’s policymaking and investment priorities, points to areas the EU is already strong in, such as shipbuilding and algae farming. Maritime technology is one of the most innovative areas of Europe’s economy, with 9 per cent of turnover invested in R&D, the report’s authors said.