The conference brought together nearly 200 researchers, students, practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders from the 9 EU-CONEXUS countries and partner institutions. It presented a unique opportunity to discuss common societal challenges across five interdisciplinary topics, which were explored in dedicated roundtables.
Through an interdisciplinary approach, the participants addressed the shared challenges faced by coastal cities across EU-CONEXUS countries. They also explored potential collaborations, future projects, and academic partnerships that could contribute to stronger cooperation between universities and socio-economic partners.
The conference demonstrated how research can give way to real-world solutions that create meaningful change. By using data to inform decisions, keeping health practices sustainable, creating strong urban systems, involving communities, and using current economic models, coastal cities can better support the locals, predict climate risks, improve services, and make sure resources are accessible to everyone. The focus on social equity made clear that at-risk groups also need to be involved in planning how coastal cities will develop.
Attendees also joined workshops centred on EU-CONEXUS Research Challenges and the main conference themes, such as lessening the impact of disasters and adapting to climate change in coastal areas, managing coastal waste in a sustainable manner, and handling diseases for healthy food and soil systems. These sessions allowed the participants to better understand real-world scenarios and explore collaboration opportunities aimed at helping communities across Europe.
The poster session allowed the attendees to showcase their projects and research to others, explain their work, and point out potential opportunities for collaboration. It also highlighted the importance of using scientific knowledge to shape public decisions, support innovation, and encourage community involvement.
In short, the EU-CONEXUS Conference 2025 restated the role and power of research in creating safer, healthier, and more sustainable coastal societies. It also presented the alliance as a source of real change at the regional, national, and European levels. All conference presentations and roundtables are available to watch on the EU-CONEXUS YouTube channel, and the full collection of posters remains permanently accessible on the conference website.
