THE keynote speaker presents its talk in the plenary session on April 16th.
The biologist and marine science specialist, originally from Madeira Island, João Canning Clode – founder and coordinator of MARE-Madeira and Principal Investigator at the Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation (ARDITI) – he is the keynote speaker at the annual meeting of the FCCN community.
The deputy director of MARE – Center for Marine and Environmental Sciences, one of the largest R&D, research and development units in Portugal, is a speaker at the plenary session of FCCN Conferences, which takes place at April 16, starting at 9:00 am, at the Madeira Congress Center Auditorium. The presentation is entitled Beyond the Blue: Convergence of Science and Society in Ocean Conservation for Future Generations.
João Canning Clode answered some questions about his participation in Jornadas FCCN 2024, revealing more details about what will be highlighted in his session.
“The journeys will allow highlight the region as a potential center of excellence in research and innovation, but also promote integration and collaboration between the local scientific community and national and international experts”, says João Canning Clode.
What motivated you to accept the invitation to be keynote speaker of the FCCN 2024 Conferences?
The invitation to be keynote At Jornadas FCCN 2024, for me, it represents a unique opportunity to share advances in ocean conservation research, a topic that is at the heart of our work at MARE-Madeira.
The possibility of dialoguing and exchanging experiences with various players Linked to science, technology, and society as a whole, this is a way to multiply our efforts and have a positive impact on marine conservation. The FCCN, a leading figure in the promotion of knowledge and innovation in Portugal, offers the ideal platform for this debate.
How will the work developed at MARE – Center for Marine and Environmental Sciences be reflected in your presentation?
In my presentation, I will reflect on how the research and projects developed at MARE-Madeira are contributing to the advancement of knowledge about marine ecosystems. I will address the main threats to biodiversity loss, namely climate change, invasive species, and marine litter. Equally important, I will highlight how interdisciplinary and international collaboration and community participation are essential to the success of our mission.
Do you think an event like this is important for the Madeira Region?
Without a doubt, events like the FCCN Conference are of immense value to Madeira. The Conferences highlight the region as a potential center of excellence in research and innovation, but they also promote integration and collaboration between the local scientific community and national and international experts. This is an opportunity to showcase Madeira's unique potential in marine and environmental research.
What impact do you expect the presence of so many professionals and entities from the technology and science sectors in Funchal to have?
I believe this presence can serve as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration. I hope this meeting expands the dialogue on the global challenges we all face, especially on critical topics such as climate change, ocean conservation, and sustainability.
To what extent do FCCN services help MARE develop its activities?
FCCN's services are essential to expanding our access to advanced digital resources, enabling us to conduct quality research and collaborate effectively with national and international partners. I'd highlight the b-on and Colibri platforms.
The main technological trends and innovations will be highlighted. Do you believe these will also have an impact on the maritime and environmental ecosystem?
Technological innovations certainly play a transformative role in marine and environmental research. Advanced monitoring and data analysis tools, for example, support our ability to understand complex ocean systems and respond to environmental challenges.
João Canning Clode is also the Coordinator of the SEDES-Madeira Ocean Observatory and currently chairs one of the Expert Groups of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). In 2023, he was recognized by the Edinburgh Ocean Leaders program. He is the author of more than 120 scientific publications, and his research has received media coverage in several countries.
Learn more about the FCCN 2024 Conference program and register at https://indico.fccn.pt/event/29/registrations/37/
