On September 26, 2023, the METU Ankara Campus became a focal point for global discussions on ocean science and sustainability as it hosted the International Conference addressing Türkiye’s Contributions to the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

Organized by METU Institute of Marine Sciences, as the BRIDGE-BS coordinating institute, in collaboration with the Office of Navigation, Hydrography and Oceanography (ONHO), the conference witnessed active participation from approximately 150 attendees representing various sectors, including government ministries, academia, and national marine research institutes.

Among the distinguished participants and organizations at the event, BRIDGE-BS stood out for its pioneering work in advancing marine research and sustainable practices. In addition to participating in the poster session with BRIDGE-BS visual materials, Sigi Gruber, former Head of Unit, Health Seas and Oceans, European Commission; highlighted BRIDGE-BS as an exemplary case of Ocean Decade Actions in her presentation. Furthermore, Dr. Lt. Cdr. Emre Tükenmez, Head of the Chart Production Department in ONHO, included the İstanbul Living Lab, conducted within the scope of BRIDGE-BS, as one of the activities undertaken at the regional level in his speech.

During the event, BRIDGE-BS’s Communications Manager, Ezgi Şahin, emphasized the Black Sea Young Ambassadors, sharing insights into the experiences and opportunities within the programme.

As the world collectively strives to address the pressing challenges facing our oceans, BRIDGE-BS has proven to be a beacon of hope and a model for effective, science-driven action.