• Date: 17th March 2026
  • Start: 9:00
    End: 13:00
  • Auditorium 2,

7th Annual IPBN Sustainability Conference - OCEAN

Start Date:

9:00am, 17th March 2026

End Date:

1:00pm, 17th March 2026

Location:

UE Oriente Green Campus, R. Adão Manuel Ramos Barata 3, 1886-502 Moscavide, Auditorium 2,

Country:

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qpWgaEuhTYHsBe7Y7

Brochure:

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The Ireland Portugal Business Network is pleased to announce the 7th edition of its annual flagship Sustainability Conference, taking place on Tuesday, 17 March, at the UE Oriente Green Campus, from 9h to 13h, followed by a light lunch.

Held each year around St Patrick’s Day, the IPBN Sustainability Conference has become a cornerstone event in the Ireland–Portugal business calendar. This edition will once again welcome Alma Ní Choigligh, Ambassador of Ireland to Portugal, a Minister of the Irish Government, representatives from Enterprise Ireland, as well as the IPBN Chair and Board Members, marking the occasion with a strong sense of shared purpose, celebration, and collaboration.

Ocean – The Blue Economy

The theme for this year’s conference, “Ocean – The Blue Economy,” reflects the growing urgency and opportunity surrounding ocean sustainability, innovation, and responsible economic development. With Ireland and Portugal both deeply connected to the Atlantic, the ocean represents not only a shared natural heritage, but also a powerful space for joint leadership in sustainability, science, and technology.

The conference will explore this theme through a series of engaging panel conversations, bringing together experts from both countries to share real-world experience, research, and forward-looking solutions across three key areas:

  • Climate impact on coastal infrastructure:
    Examining real-time climate risks such as sea-level rise, stronger storms, and storm surges, and how these pressures are accelerating the degradation of transport networks, water systems, and coastal protection structures.
  • Science, innovation, and ocean climate justice:
    A dedicated panel conversation with the Ethical Assembly, exploring science-driven approaches, innovation, and the social and ethical dimensions of ocean protection.
  • Technology transforming ocean protection. What's next for tech-driven marine protection:
    Entering a new era of innovation, this discussion will look at how AI, drones, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are reshaping ocean monitoring and protection — enabling real-time response, predictive modelling, and unprecedented global collaboration.

Ireland–Portugal Collaboration

A central focus of the conference will be the work already underway in Ireland and Portugal across these areas, and how stronger partnerships between the two countries can drive environmental, social, and economic impact. Guest speakers from both markets will highlight opportunities for cooperation, innovation, and shared leadership in the Blue Economy.

A Forum for Connection and Exchange

Beyond the panels, the Sustainability Conference offers a valuable opportunity to connect with key players from the sustainability, innovation, and business communities, alongside IPBN Executive Partners, members, and stakeholders from both countries.

Special thank you to all our Partners

  • Universidade Europeia - Venue and Academic Partner
  • IPBN Executive Partners
  • Essential Business Portugal – Media Partner
  • RXL Studio – Media Production Partner

The full programme and speaker lineup are currently being finalised and will be announced shortly. Registration is now open, and places are limited.

We encourage members and guests to register early and stay tuned for panel and speaker updates as we prepare for an inspiring and impactful edition of the IPBN Sustainability Conference.

There will be plenty of time for networking during our welcome coffee, coffee break (30 minutes) and our light lunch, 

REGISTER NOW

The conference is open to IPBN members and non members

Book Now
Conference Only
€0
Conference + Light Lunch
€25

**Anyone purchasing IPBN Member Tickets must have valid IPBN Membership on the day of the event. If you would like to purchase IPBN membership please go to https://www.ireland-portugal.com/join/. To check your membership status please contact arnold.delville@ireland-portugal.com.