The designation places B2E CoLAB, a private non-profit association that bridges science and the market in the blue bioeconomy sector, within a European network of specialised organisations that contribute to the work of the EEA and to the Eionet network, which brings together the European Environment Agency, its member countries and a broad group of knowledge partners. For the upcoming period, 295 organisations have been designated, including seven Portuguese entities.

Joining this network is the result of a call for expressions of interest launched by the EEA, and it provides a new framework for B2E CoLAB’s participation in European initiatives on the environment, resources and sustainability. Depending on the areas and opportunities launched for 2027–2030, the organisation may join consortia with other entities in the network.

Blue knowledge with a European reach

B2E CoLAB’s presence in this European network builds on expertise the organisation has been developing at the interface between science, innovation and the market in the blue bioeconomy sector, in areas such as blue biotechnology, aquaculture, the circular economy, life cycle assessment (LCA) and the development of roadmaps for the sustainable transition.

It is in this space connecting knowledge and application that B2E CoLAB will seek to contribute to future collaboration opportunities at European level, drawing on expertise in the valorisation of biological resources, circularity and the sustainability of ocean-related value chains.

For B2E CoLAB, the designation is also an opportunity to strengthen its ties with European knowledge networks and to broaden collaboration with organisations from different countries and fields of expertise.

B2E CoLAB’s designation is valid for the 2027–2030 period. Inclusion on the Topic Centre list opens up collaboration opportunities that will arise from specific processes to be launched by the EEA throughout this period.