The Blue Wink-E 2025 “Ocean in Loop” event, promoted by B2E – Blue Bioeconomy CoLAB, will bring together, on June 6, at the Cruise Terminal of the Port of Leixões, a wide range of experts, decision-makers, and representatives of companies and public institutions to discuss the future of the blue bioeconomy, with a special focus on circular and regenerative solutions and the international projection of the sector.

The program includes two high-level round tables, which aim to foster dialogue between science, industry, society, and policy makers. The first, entitled “Circular Solutions in the Blue Bioeconomy,” brings together personalities with extensive experience in applying circular economy principles to the sustainable exploitation and valorization of marine resources. The second, “The Future of the Global Market and Sustainable Innovation,” takes a look at the challenges of ecological transition at sea and strategies to position Portugal at the forefront of the international blue economy.

“Blue Wink-E is a collective construction platform and a showcase of concrete examples that are changing the way we think about and use marine resources,” says Maria Coelho, coordinator of B2E CoLAB. “We believe that the blue bioeconomy will only have a real impact if it is circular, regenerative, and capable of creating value for coastal communities while preserving ecosystems,” she emphasizes.

Global positioning

The round table on circular solutions will feature contributions from José Maria Costa, former Secretary of State for the Sea, known for his role in defining public policies for ocean sustainability, and Breixo Ventoso, global director of R&D at the Frinsa Group, which includes the Portuguese canning company A Poveira, and which has been investing in innovation as a driver of transformation in a traditional sector. Maria Coelho, coordinator of B2E CoLAB, and Marlos Silva, Head of R&D and Innovation at MC Sonae, will also participate.

The round table dedicated to the global future of the blue bioeconomy will feature Assunção Cristas, former minister with a recognized track record in the area of sustainability, Ricardo Arroja, president of AICEP, Hermano Rodrigues, director at EY-Parthenon, and Nuno Lourenço, coordinator of the European consortium One Water.

“The knowledge exists, the projects are in place, and partnerships are happening. We now need to accelerate the scale and impact,” emphasizes Maria Coelho, adding: “Blue Wink-E is also a space for us to reflect on what is blocking the adoption of more circular and innovative models.”

Blue Wink-E 2025 will also feature networking sessions, case study presentations, and institutional interventions aimed at strengthening cooperation between research centers, companies, local authorities, and government entities.