Agenda 2023

With public transport at the heart of efforts to make cities more liveable and to meet ambitious emission reduction targets, strategies to support public transport to be more reliable and convenient are critical. This session will explore how innovative solutions including shared mobility hubs, gamification and incentive mechanisms can accelerate public transport uptake.

Welcome and Opening session of Tomorrow.BlueEconomy, with Fira Barcelona, Barcelona City Council, World Ocean Council, and Smart Ports.

How can cities harness data for change? Urban centers are embracing data-driven transformation, using tools like Big Data, Analytics, and Digital Twins to reshape planning, connectivity, and management. A robust technical foundation can guide decision-makers with accurate, real-time information to meet the user's needs and create intelligent and efficient ecosystems. However, maintaining transparency and privacy remains a challenge.

Embracing the digital revolution in urban planning and design unlocks limitless possibilities. Data-driven approaches in the built environment revolutionize decision-making, sustainability, and project outcomes. How can we seize the transformative power of robotics, AI, 3D modeling, BIM, Big Data, and Building Automation? How can we take advantage of technology and digital tools to make more successful smart buildings?

The America’s Cup has already arrived in Barcelona. What lasting urban and infrastructure developments can be attributed to hosting the America's Cup? How can sustainability initiatives tied to the America's Cup enhance a city's environmental legacy, green practices, and community benefits? And how can a top global sport event become a sustainability leader?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming cities, offering immense potential to address emerging urban challenges. Metropolises are leveraging IoT to optimize public services and infrastructure, from resource management to public safety and building efficiency. However, as cities embrace IoT's interconnectedness, data privacy and security concerns have surfaced. Can governments ensure the integration of IoT technologies while safeguarding citizen privacy?

Water management has become a central topic of the urban agenda. Efficient and sustainable policies are vital for citizen well-being and the planet, prompting local governments to take proactive measures, transforming urban resilience using innovative approaches. Yet, rising global freshwater demand remains a significant challenge. Can cities adapt quickly enough to their fast-growing population and the management of a dwindling resource?

As the pressure rises for energy companies to transform and transition to renewable energy, their environmental effects are both positive and negative. What are the those impacts of offshore renewables, e.g. seafood, fisheries, biodiversity, noise, coastal communities, etc.? How can the various interests and concerns of stakeholders (energy industry, NGOs, local communities, policymakers) be balanced in the development and implementation of offshore projects? And what is the role of technology, innovation, and data in providing solutions to the impacts and concerns related to offshore renewable energy?

Circular practices, enhancing resource efficiency, reusability, and waste reduction, are gaining momentum. With the implementation of recycling, effective waste management, and efficient water usage, urban centers are trying to adapt to the challenges brought by the climate emergency. How can these strategies be comprehensive enough to ensure thriving cities while prioritizing sustainability, innovation, and collaborative efforts across sectors?

Tackling major global challenges and trends requires careful financial prioritisation and use of resources.
Public-private partnerships are an increasingly important model to support critical urban mobility infrastructure and systems. In this discussion, panellists will reflect on the role of these partnerships, and how cities can implement innovative partnership and business models to accelerate the sustainable and digital transition.

Devastating marine biodiversity loss, coastal eutrophication, ocean acidification,… How can digitalization, technology, innovation and data help conserve and regenerate nearshore marine biodiversity and ecosystems in and around cities? How can the business of coastal and marine ecosystem regeneration create a healthy environment, create jobs and contribute to sustainable coastal cities? And what are the Blue Carbon, Blue Bonds, Natural Capital and Biodiversity Credits opportunities for coastal municipalities and how can these be developed?

How can climate-positive districts lead cities towards sustainability, resilience, and well-being? Greener districts are the first step towards creating thriving urban environments that prioritize resource efficiency, environmental stewardship, and a higher quality of life. How can design, circular economy principles, and sustainable technologies help create a brighter future for all?

We will delve into the intersection of technology and sustainability for coastal cities. How can the digital ocean, ocean data and the Internet of Things help coastal cities address sustainability? What is the role of AI in advancing smart, sustainable coastal cities and their Blue Economy? How can ocean data and monitoring improve marine spatial planning around coastal cities?

Cities are embarking on a journey of digital transformation, integrating innovative technologies to create smarter, more connected, and responsive urban environments. Advanced Digital Services provide a diverse range of solutions, from data-driven decision-making to responsive infrastructure management. Can urban leaders harness the power of technology while bridging the digital divide, ensuring data privacy, and fostering responsible innovation?

Data-driven urban policies and decision-making are revolutionizing cities. With the transformative potential of data analytics, integration, and management, cities can optimize services, enhance urban planning, and improve resource management. Embracing open data initiatives can foster transparency and public engagement in urban governance. How can data management be implemented efficiently and ethically to create significant value for cities?

How can cities thrive in uncertain times? From embracing emerging technologies to reimagining infrastructure and fostering global collaboration, urban centers keep exploring innovative strategies to stay ahead of the unprecedented challenges they are facing. At the heart of it all: innovative and resourceful governance.

Imagine a future where you can seamlessly plan and book all your mobility needs via a single integrated application. This future is at our fingertips. But unlocking multimodal travel booking, will require collaboration to create a single market of mobility data. Join this discussion examining the complex topic of data and the role cities can play in leading the way to making an EU-wide mobility data space a reality.

Cities are envisioning a transformative future, where innovation seamlessly integrates with sustainable practices. Yet, finding the equilibrium between nurturing innovation and crafting a sustainable built environment, complete with decarbonized infrastructure and green building initiatives, presents challenges. Can the vision of net-zero cities materialize in this intricate landscape?

We will talk about how to get more investors support blue economy projects. What innovative financing models show promise in supporting ocean-related projects and industries? How can we attract more impact investors to contribute to projects aimed at ocean conservation and blue economy development? And in what ways can technological advancements, such as blockchain, enhance transparency and accountability in ocean-focused funding efforts?

Visionary design will lead cities to a new era of thriving, resource-efficient and future-ready urban environments. By embracing technological advancements, decarbonisation principles and innovative infrastructure strategies, cities are being reshaped for the better. How can greener buildings and infrastructure bring cities to a sustainable reality, and towards a technologically enabled, balanced urban landscape?

Pitch contest organized by Tech Tour, one of the largest investor-oriented communities in Europe connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and corporate partners from across the world.

Topic: Oceans & Climate (Clean Ocean; Blue Biotechnology; Maritime transport; Marine living resource; Marine non-living resources; Infrastructure and Robotics; Shipbuilding & repair; Coastal tourism; Port Activities; Ocean energy; Marine Renewable Energy; GHG reduction and CCU; Desalination; Aquaculture; Environmental & Pollution solutions; Maritime defence; New sources of ocean harvest).

The exciting opportunity for professionals and innovators to showcase their latest ideas and solutions for improving the Oceans and Climate industry. This contest seeks to recognize and reward the most innovative and impactful ideas related to clean ocean, ocean energy, marine renewable energy, aquaculture, and sustainability. Participants are encouraged to think outside the box and propose creative solutions that can drive the industry forwa Hall 2 | Tomorrow.Blue Economy Plaza

How can urban centers fortify the future of our interconnected world? In the face of ever-increasing cyber threats, cities are taking decisive action to enhance readiness, responsiveness, and resilience. Through the implementation of secure-by-design principles, cybersecurity awareness, and enhanced collaboration, governance strategies are shaping the fortification of digital ecosystems. Empowering cities means safeguarding our digital future.

Cities have the power to drive change in the fight against the climate crisis. Tackling interconnected urban challenges, including the energy transition or food insecurity, calls for comprehensive solutions. Through curbing emissions, leading scalable projects, and fostering collaboration, cities can enact effective climate action. However, the question remains: which strategies will yield time and cost-effective results in achieving these crucial objectives?

The combination of lockdown recovery, the energy crisis, and increase in cost of living, has served to highlight societal inequalities. This session will be a passionate discussion on the fairness of the transition to sustainable and accessible urban mobility and an exploration of how moving around cities can become more accessible, safe, and affordable whilst making the most of existing mobility services and embracing new solutions.

From optimizing real estate to enhancing urban safety and sustainability, the digital innovations of Property Technology hold the key to creating more efficient and livable cities. But how can global metropolises successfully implement PropTech to boost the functionality, safety, and sustainability of their real estate? How can we reimagine the future of this sector in a digitally-driven urban landscape?

This engaging roundtable discussion unites CEOs of major ports and mayors from port cities to explore the evolving relationship between these crucial entities. Focusing on real-world examples, such as the "Port of Hamburg's Visionary 2040 Development Plan," the conversation centers on how the concepts of innovation and sustainability are reshaping this dynamic partnership.

The CEOs and mayors will delve into topics like digitalization, sustainability, and collaborative initiatives, showcasing how innovation can foster growth, sustainability, and prosperity for both ports and cities. This discussion offers a glimpse into the transformative potential of innovation in our global port communities.

Droughts, heatwaves, flooding, and storms cause disruptions to the transportation systems of cities across the world, and climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of these extreme weather events. In this high-level discussion, panellists will discuss solutions and strategies for cities to become climate change resilient and adaptive, highlighting successful and ambitious initiatives that will inspire.

This session focuses on the significant challenges faced by cargo owners, shipping enterprises, and port authorities within the current landscape. This interactive discussion aims to delve into the complexities of these challenges and shed light on avenues for collaborative issue resolution. Join us to uncover how these key players can synergize efforts and identify shared resolutions.

The global competition for leadership on AI is omnipresent. But what fields are AI applications for mobility more advanced? And what are the potential implications for cutting edge innovations? This panel discussion will examine the meaning of trustworthy and responsible AI applications in the mobility sector, including how this can ensured by service providers and regulators.

In the face of growing environmental concerns and the need for greater efficiency, the maritime industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards sustainable and intelligent transport solutions. This session will delve into the latest advancements in technology and practices that contribute to sustainable and intelligent maritime transport. Join industry experts as they discuss innovative technologies, alternative fuels, and digitalization's role in optimizing efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Discover collaborative initiatives and regulatory frameworks driving change in the maritime industry.

Unleashing the potential of inclusive and safe public spaces is crucial for vibrant cities. Join us as we delve into citizen engagement, new technologies, and innovative design while tackling the challenges of enhancing public safety. How can local governments involve citizens in creating safer cities? Can we shape a future where public spaces empower communities by prioritizing people in the planning process?

Can urban expansion align with global sustainability goals? Cities are transforming their energy models to face the challenge of reducing their carbon footprint while accommodating continuous growth. From Smart Grids to clean hydrogen, innovative solutions are paving the way to a greener future. Yet, the journey to secure a steady and reliable power supply while driving the clean energy revolution forward comes with its share of challenges.

As technology disrupts traditional building approaches, smarter buildings redefine urban living. 3D printing, AI, real-time data, digital twins, and sustainable materials drive the construction industry towards resource-efficient and user-centric projects. What are the potential and limitations of these cutting-edge solutions shaping smarter infrastructure and buildings? How can smart buildings contribute to resilient and sustainable urban environments?

Dive into the dynamic realm of urban development in ports, unveiling innovative models that are shaping the future of these vibrant cityscapes and explore the symbiotic relationship between port activities and urban growth, examining how large events can significantly impact port-cities. Navigate the exciting intersection of port activities, urban growth, and large events, envisioning the future of port city renaissance with a focus on economic prosperity and social cohesion.

As the world embraces digital transformation, innovation's role becomes central to global development. The Blue Economy is pivotal in smartly, efficiently, and sustainably transforming ports. New ICT infrastructures like 5G, IoT, and AI drive this change. The session delves into port innovation, unveiling fresh maritime solutions. Explore cutting-edge technologies reshaping the industry, empowering ports in the digital era. Discover AI's varied applications, optimizing logistics, enhancing supply chain visibility, and improving safety.

Despite policies and industrial priorities heavily pushing for the electrification of transportation, challenges related to design, lifecycle, and sourcing of critical metals are threatening to prevent the realisation of 2030 objectives. This session will discuss the various requirements to accelerate the uptake of vehicles with smaller, more efficient batteries without compromising range, as we race to net zero.

Amidst digital transformation, Urban Digital Twins rise as potent tools for proactive urban solutions. These virtual replicas offer a holistic view of the city’s functioning, empowering informed decision-making. Despite its potential in optimizing operations, ensuring sustainability, and fostering participation, concerns for data privacy and inclusivity loom. Can cities navigate this virtual realm while building people-centric urban environments?

Urban spaces must ensure equal access to opportunities and resources, but systemic inequalities marginalize vulnerable populations, depriving them of core services. An intersectional approach is crucial to address issues as social exclusion, gender inequality or the digital divide. How can leaders and stakeholders address the diverse needs of communities as the first step towards inclusive, equitable, and sustainable cities for all?

How do cities balance innovation, resilience, climate action, and well-being in the energy transition? The climate crisis permeates every aspect of urban life, making holistic solutions vital for healthier, climate-neutral cities. Delving into the strategies cities are adopting and understanding their potential can be the fist step towards driving successful energy transitions and creating the urban landscapes of the future.

Fighting climate change requires a holistic strategy that adapt cities to present and future challenges. In that sense, achieving net-zero infrastructure brings many opportunities, yet difficulties lie ahead. The latest trends suggest a global approach to decarbonization, spanning from design to deconstruction. How can greener infrastructures, encompassing carbon reduction and renewable energy, be made a reality?

Access to capital is crucial for start-up growth and a key driver of a sustainable innovation ecosystem. Join this discussion on the current investment environment, its implications on the strategic priorities of public and private investors, and the consequences for start-ups. How can innovators get their ideas funded and what solutions are there for start-ups eager to go in the next investment round?

Pitch contest organized by Tech Tour, one of the largest investor-oriented communities in Europe connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and corporate partners from across the world.

Topic: Maritime Supply Chain / Smart Ports (Maritime; Rail ; Track & Trace; Logistic systems; Smart storage; Cold chain tech; Autonomous trucks; Digital twin & cybersecurity; AI & Analytics; IOT & Blockchain; AR/VR/XR systems; Robotics and handling; Safety and security; Reskilling and upskilling; Hiring, training & skills).

The exciting opportunity for port industry professionals and innovators to showcase their latest ideas and solutions for improving the port industry. This contest seeks to recognize and reward the most innovative and impactful ideas related to port operations, logistics, and sustainability. Participants are encouraged to think outside the box and propose creative solutions that can drive the industry forward. The contest is open to individuals, startups, and established companies. Join us in this ex Hall 2 | Tomorrow.Blue Economy Plaza

Resourceful governance empowers global cities to drive progress. Internationalization strategies, circular economy models, and innovative financing schemes are shaping vibrant urban hubs that retain talent, foster prosperity, and embrace innovation. Amidst all this progress, how can city leaders ensure that they maintain a people-centred approach?

The rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing the urban environment. While AI holds immense promise in smart city planning and management, concerns about biases, ethics, job displacement, and privacy arise. Can city leaders effectively leverage AI while addressing its ethical implications? Can AI implementation in the urban landscape overcome these challenges and pave the way for a more intelligent and inclusive future?

In a world grappling with escalating emissions, cities are spearheading climate goals into action. From discourse to implementation, reducing carbon footprints, fostering resilient communities, exploring alternative energy pathways, and implementing innovative strategies is at the core of city planning. How are urban centres becoming powerful catalysts in driving the required change to attain a sustainable future for all?

Historically for many cities, their growth and economic exchanges were built on and around inland and coastal waterways. These same waterways could now be key to solving contemporary mobility challenges. However, operational costs, lack of infrastructure, and environmental concerns remain barriers to the development of this alternative to road and rail. This session will explore what can be done to unlock the full potential of waterborne transport.

Join us for an insightful discussion where we'll delve into the future of public safety, climate, and transformation in our rapidly evolving urban landscapes. Titled "Building Our Future Cities Together," this session will highlight the transformative power of technology, from cutting-edge AI solutions to intelligent infrastructure. Don't miss this unique opportunity to engage in discussions about the future and our approach to humanizing its purpose for smarter results.

The future of vehicles is autonomous. However, the question for many, remains… What is the benefit of autonomous mobility? This discussion will shed light on some of the societal, environmental and safety benefits that will ultimately transform our cities and lives. Learn more about where we currently stand when it comes to the supporting infrastructure and regulatory framework on cooperative, connected and automated mobility.

How are communities reshaping urban landscapes? Cities are adopting collaborative governance models, such as participatory budgeting and co-creation initiatives, to enhance citizen engagement. This involvement in policymaking and city-building holds transformative potential, essential for creating inclusive, sustainable, and responsive urban environments.

What do cities really need for their Blue Economy growth? What can digitalization, blue tech and ocean innovation provide and what is the role of the corporate ocean sectors?

Modern cities should aim to foster inclusivity and address disparities among their citizens. Urban leaders are implementing projects to ensure equal access to resources and opportunities and to promote vibrant and inclusive communities. However, social and labor integration challenges persist. How can cities amplify their commitment and promote equality, and empowerment for all?

Resilient urban planning has the potential to transform communities. Through long-term building renovation strategies, data analysis, and innovative technology, urban spaces can be reshaped, revitalizing declining neighborhoods and ensuring that everyone has equal access to services. However, can building upgrades and sustainable solutions converge to create vibrant and thriving cities?

The on-demand economy, bolstered by increasing digitalisation and socioeconomic trends, saw unprecedented growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Same day and local deliveries and take-back policies make this trend look likely to stay. The impacts on congestion, noise and air pollution, and quality of life, require an innovative and holistic approach to vehicle fleets, logistics flows as well as private and public collaboration.

This session will investigate strategies for making coastal cities and their environments strong in the face of climate challenges. How can coastal cities and habitats be resilient to future climate shocks? How can the sustainable Blue Economy assist coastal cities to respond to climate change? And what digital, data and AI solutions can best assist coastal cities with climate change?

In a time characterized by rapid technological advancements and interconnected global challenges, reshaping urban governance has never been more pressing. As the epicentres economic activity and growth, innovative governance has a pivotal role to play in effecting positive change, enhancing transparency, and accountability. What successful strategies are being used by decision-makers to foster collaborative, future-oriented cities?

As cities embark on a journey of digital transformation, they are revolutionizing urban living and decision-making. Cutting-edge technologies like Big Data, virtual reality, robotics, and blockchain offer unparalleled opportunities for urban centers. However, as technology advances, cities must prioritize environmental stewardship and social equity in digital solutions. How can digital urbanism offer more sustainable, equitable, and efficient urban environments?

Urban centers are leading the way in embracing the circular economy, an approach that emphasizes resource efficiency and waste repurposing. By redesigning, reducing, reusing, and recycling, cities can achieve a balance between economic growth and sustainability. But how can circular practices be seamlessly integrated into the urban fabric? What strategies can cities adopt to minimize consumption while maximizing resource utilization?

The world urgently needs impactful blue economy solutions, both local and scalable ones. How can collaborative networks accelerate innovative solutions within the blue economy and what are the challenges of scaling up blue economy start-ups? How is impact being measured, communicated and invested in? Come and listen to the global alliance BEGIN – the Blue Economy Innovation Network.

How can urban technological innovation maintain a citizen-centered approach? As tools like AI grow in use in the public sector, understanding its strengths and challenges becomes vital. Challenges of legislation, technology, community, and ethics shape the urban innovation landscape. Amid emerging applications, ensuring tech benefits citizen well-being, regional vitality, and sustainability is paramount.

Urban challenges are more complex than ever. To address them, cross-sector collaboration in governance is crucial. Governments are starting to tap into the potential of citizen participation and the involvement of the private sector to create inclusive and sustainable urban environments. What is the best way for cities to find a balance between the co-creation of the cities and maintaining effective decision-making processes?

This high-level roundtable will tackle key questions about the role of governance in ensuring not only a sustainable transition, but also a just one. The impact on people as part of the transition to net-zero mobility in cities will be explored alongside examples of successful public-private collaborations to resolve city mobility challenges, both from a technology and governance point of view.

Water and Waste Management is key to a smart sustainable city policy. What are current best practices to manage plastics, nutrients and other marine pollution in coastal urban areas? How can digitalization, monitoring, technology, innovation and data help municipalities manage waste and nearshore water pollution? And what synergies can and should be developed between ports and their host cities to manage waste and water pollution?

Cities are embracing new economic models to attract talent and foster vitality. Beyond mere economic growth, these new blueprints aim to foster holistic local development, to enhance efficiency and to promote innovative ecosystems. What challenges and opportunities do shifting economic paradigms present? How can cities become vibrant hubs of inclusive innovation and progress?

Since the end of the pandemic, government priorities and housing options are evolving to meet the changing needs of urban communities. Housing policies and planning play a pivotal role in fostering healthier, dynamic, and inclusive neighborhoods, enhancing well-being for all residents. But how can local governance strike a balance between affordability, low-carbon housing, and the citizen's right to the city?

Are you interested in a Blue Careers? Join a talk not only about green upskilling, but about blue upskilling and job creation. What are the Blue Economy job opportunities for smart and sustainable coastal cities and what can municipalities do to accelerate and optimize blue economy job development? What is the role of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology in creating and sustaining blue economy jobs? And how do we best address the needs and opportunities for professional training in the sustainable blue economy?

The decarbonisation of transportation is an important part of the race to meet net zero climate targets.

With a legal framework supporting the procurement of alternative energy vehicles, such as electric, hydrogen and battery-electric, it is now a race for local authorities to implement supporting infrastructures, with Public Private Partnerships and innovation projects key enablers in the transition.