A-AAGORA Showcases Innovative Coastal Restoration Solutions at the One Ocean Science Conference and UN Ocean Conference

In June 2025, the project actively contributed to two of the world’s leading ocean events in Nice, France: the One Ocean Science Conference (3–6 June) and the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (9–13 June)

Through scientific presentations, interactive demonstrations, and high-level discussions, A-AAGORA highlighted how research, innovation, and stakeholder engagement can accelerate coastal restoration and strengthen the resilience of coastal communities.

Advancing ocean restoration through science and innovation

At the One Ocean Science Conference, Ana Lillebø, A-AAGORA Coordinator, participated as an invited speaker in the session “On a Mission to Restore the Ocean and Waters – Towards the Deployment at Scale of Innovative Solutions for Ocean Restoration and Resilience of Coastal Communities”, convened by Elisabetta Balzi. Bringing together leading international experts, the session explored how research and innovation can support the implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework and the High Seas Treaty while accelerating large-scale ocean restoration. During the panel discussion, Ana Lillebø shared A-AAGORA’s experience in connecting science, communities, and innovative solutions to support resilient and climate-neutral coastal futures.

Serious games for stakeholder engagement

A-AAGORA also showcased its innovative digital serious game, developed by researchers from the Center for Ocean and Society at Kiel University in collaboration with A-AAGORA partners, designer Julia Löwe, and software company naymspace. Presented by Rudi Voss (Kiel University) as an interactive 3D poster, the game attracted considerable interest and generated valuable discussions throughout the conference.

Designed to foster public engagement, education, and collaborative decision-making, the mobile-based game invites players to solve fictional but realistic coastal challenges inspired by the A-AAGORA Demonstrator regions in Norway, Ireland, and Portugal. Through a Living Lab co-creation process, the storylines illustrate the importance of cooperation among local stakeholders while introducing players to real ecological and socio-cultural challenges faced by coastal communities. The interactive poster featured 3D elements and innovative NFC-enabled giveaways, allowing participants to instantly access the game on their mobile devices. Available in English, Portuguese, Norwegian, French, and German, the open-access platform is designed to be easily adapted to new coastal regions, supporting knowledge exchange and wider replication beyond the project.

Contributing to global discussions on coastal resilience

At the European Digital Ocean Pavilion during UN Ocean Conference 3, Ana Lillebø represented A-AAGORA in the session “Let’s Talk About Coastal Challenges”, where international experts discussed emerging pressures affecting coastal regions worldwide.

As part of the panel on Advances in Coastal Monitoring, she presented A-AAGORA’s work on innovative monitoring tools and collaborative approaches that support evidence-based responses to coastal challenges. The discussion reinforced the importance of integrating scientific knowledge, digital innovation, and stakeholder participation to develop effective restoration strategies.

Building resilient coastal futures together

A-AAGORA’s participation in both events demonstrated the project’s commitment to translating research into practical solutions for ecosystem restoration. By combining scientific excellence, digital innovation, and participatory approaches such as Living Labs and serious games, the project continues to empower communities, support informed decision-making, and contribute to healthier and more resilient coastal ecosystems across Europe.