| June 2nd, 2025 | News

From 21-23 May, SOS-ZEROPOL2030 workshop participants came together to explore how to address challenges around science communication and stakeholder engagement in the context of marine pollution. The session showcased the projects efforts to make evidence-based scientific information for different marine pollutants more accessible for diverse audiences and engaging by using creative and transdisciplinary approaches.

Living Labs

A key focus was the Living Lab approach, which fosters collaboration with stakeholders around three regional seas and focuses on Tyre Wear Particles (TWPs) and PFAS, two pollutants that are poorly understood and regulated but increasingly present in our marine environments. Led by a diverse team of experts in marine pollution, science policy, stakeholder engagement, and science communication, the workshop introduced several of the SOS-ZEROPOL2030 approaches with:

• Kathrin Kopke (University College Cork, Ireland), Project Coordinator, who opened the session, introduced SOS-ZEROPOL2030 and moderated the workshop.
• Thomas Heising (University College Cork) introduced the ZEROPOL Hub, an online library that provides accessible, reliable, searchable and scientifically accurate resources on marine pollution for diverse audience.
• Remco Lameijer (GRID-Arendal, Norway) showcased interactive StoryMaps on PFAS and tyre wear particles, demonstrating how narrative-driven visuals can demystify complex topics.
• Thomais Vlachogianni (Mediterranean Information Office for Environment, Culture & Sustainable Development) presented on stakeholder engagement strategies in the Mediterranean with focus on TWPs, emphasising the value of regional Living Labs in co-creating science-based and fit-purpose solutions.

Optimism and momentum

Participants engaged in small group discussions to share their concerns and insights to highlight challenges and ideas for improving how science is communicated and how stakeholders are involved around marine pollution topics. Despite identified challenges, there was also a sense of optimism and momentum toward better practices.

In conclusion participants summarised their shared perspectives by identifying agreed upon key strengths and weaknesses in current approaches:

The SOS-ZEROPOL2030 workshop was a powerful reminder that effective science communication and stakeholder engagement are not optional but essential. A heartfelt thank you to all participants and facilitators who contributed to the vibrant dialogue and collaborative spirit of the workshop. Special thanks to Clara Felberbauer, Cork City Council, Brit Alexander, European Marine Board and Aoife Deane, MaREI, University College Cork, who stepped in to support the event as group facilitators on short notice!

The SOS-ZEROPOL2030 team at European Maritime Day (credit: Kathrin Kopke, UCC)