Results of survey on economic activity at sea
For many, the sea is a large body of water with the horizon in the distance. But the North Sea is also an important breeding ground for economic activity. To what extent is the general public familiar with economic activities linked to the sea?
To find out the answer to this question, POM West-Vlaanderen and Blue Cluster launched a public survey in September 2024. The aim was to determine to what extent people are aware of complex interaction and cooperation at sea.
The most important findings of this survey can be found below.
Takeaways
- General awareness
- Many respondents have a strong connection with the sea, both personally and through an interest in nature.
- Half of the participants are familiar with concepts such as the "Blue Economy" and "Mariparks".
2. Offshore wind energy
- About half of the respondents knew that 10% of the energy in Belgium originates from offshore wind farms;
- A third of the participants are aware of the long-term objectives, such as the planned expansions by 2030.
3. Information channels
- De Grote Rede, De Zeekrant and Krant van West-Vlaanderen are the most consulted news sources for information about the sea and its activities.
4. Suggestions to increase visibility of initiatives at sea
- Events such as open days, interactive activities for the general public (such as cooking workshops or children's events) and educational campaigns in schools as well as via social media can help to raise awareness.
- Attention was drawn to the importance of regular updates via TV reports, short videos and collaborations with popular media and influencers.
5. Innovations:
- Topics that respondents associate with innovation at sea include autonomous shipping, aquaculture, floating solar panels, zero-emission shipping, and wave energy.
6. Need for transparent communication:
- There is a demand for more transparency about the impact of economic activities on the environment and fisheries, as well as the further protection of marine reserves.
These insights form a good basis for making the general public more aware of economic activities at sea and the role the public can play in this. Test@sea will continue to focus on this in the coming years. To be continued ...
Winner
Anyone who took part in the survey had a chance to win a unique pair of socks made from recycled fishing nets. A sustainable gesture that fits perfectly with our mission for a cleaner sea.
The pair of socks were eventually awarded to Bernd Herremans. Congratulations!
Offshore testing in the North Sea
In the context of the Test@Sea project, POM West-Vlaanderen and Blue Cluster have also launched a number of surveys on test activities in the North Sea. These surveys are aimed at companies.
Would you like to participate? Your input will enable us to gain more insight into the needs of the industry, and will be included in the development of future test facilities.
