The Mission Ocean Forum as part of the European Ocean Days 2026

The Mission Forum 2026, held as part of the European Ocean Days, gathered policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to assess the progress of the Mission „Restore Our Ocean and Waters by 2030“ and chart the course for future action. The event provided a platform for sharing insights, presenting achievements, and fostering collaboration among Mission projects and initiatives.

The Danube and Black Sea Ligthhouse at the Mission Ocean Forum 2026

On 5 March 2026, the Danube and Black Sea Lighthouse took part in the Mission Ocean Forum in Brussels, presenting its work through two interactive booths in the exhibition area. One booth highlighted the Lighthouse’s overarching focus on wetlands, while the second focused specifically on sediments.

Both booths showcased key information, tools, and results from the Danube and Black Sea Lighthouse projects via interactive websites and hands‑on materials. Visitors were able to explore a 3D‑printed scale model of the Danube presented by SUNDANSE, browse printed colouring books for children developed by DaWetRest, and discover game‑based tools on wetland restoration contributed by Restore4Life.

Together, the exhibits demonstrated how the Lighthouse projects use innovative communication formats, educational materials, and interactive tools—including games and visual models—to engage diverse audiences and raise awareness about wetland restoration and sustainable sediment management.

Find more information about the Lighthouse here.

EcoDaLLi at the Mission Ocean Forum 2026

During the European Ocean Days EcoDaLLi joined two Mission Ocean Forum related sessions as panelist. On 4 March EcoDaLLi contributed to the panel „Current Status: Where Mission Communities Stand Now“ of the session “Together for change: A Coalition to empower communities for Mission Ocean and Waters” organised by the CO-WATERS project. Our contribution highlighted the community-building efforts across the Danube and Black Sea Lighthouses, showcasing how collaboration across projects, regions and stakeholders supports the EU Mission Ocean and Waters’s goals. On 5 March we contributed to the panel „Governance: From national and local hubs to sea-basins coordination“ of the Mission Ocean Forum. The discussion highlighted the role of the EU Mission Ocean and Waters Lighthouses in strengthening integrated governance, while emphasising the importance of the river-to-sea connection and freshwater restoration and preservation.

Events like the European Ocean Days demonstrate the strength of collaboration across regions, projects and communities working towards healthier oceans, seas and waters.