Will Kochi Be the Center of the Fourth Global Marine Symposium?

Synopsis
The upcoming MECOS 4 in Kochi promises to be a pivotal event addressing marine ecosystem challenges from climate change. Join leading scientists and policymakers as they explore sustainable fisheries and innovative aquaculture solutions. Don't miss this opportunity to witness groundbreaking discussions that could shape the future of our oceans.
Key Takeaways
- MECOS 4 will focus on critical marine ecosystem challenges.
- Collaboration among global experts is key to sustainable solutions.
- Young researchers will be recognized with awards.
- Innovative aquaculture methods will be a major theme.
- The event will include an expo showcasing industry innovations.
Kochi, May 16 (NationPress) The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) is set to welcome participants for the fourth International Symposium on Marine Ecosystems: Challenges and Opportunities (MECOS 4), scheduled for November 4-6 this year.
Organized by the Marine Biological Association of India (MBAI) in partnership with CMFRI, this symposium will place special emphasis on research and collaborative efforts focused on climate change amidst various emerging threats to marine ecosystems, including increasing sea temperatures and extreme weather events.
This three-day event aims to unite a global network of marine scientists, researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals to tackle the escalating challenges confronting marine fisheries and aquaculture.
Dr. Grinson George, Director of CMFRI and President of MBAI, noted that the conference aims to create a thorough roadmap for sustainable marine fisheries and innovative aquaculture techniques, addressing the rising demand for seafood while safeguarding the livelihoods of coastal communities reliant on the ocean for their sustenance and income.
He emphasized, "The growing threats to marine ecosystems due to global warming require immediate and collective action. Increasing sea surface temperatures, ocean acidification, and extreme weather events pose significant risks to marine biodiversity and disrupt ecological processes," adding that MECOS-4 will delve into these and other pressing challenges and prospects.
Key discussion topics will include ecosystem and biodiversity conservation, sustainable fisheries and mariculture, resilience to climate and environmental changes, as well as products, value chains, and livelihoods.
Research focusing on marine mammals and seabirds will receive special attention during the conference.
The symposium will serve as a major platform for emerging marine researchers and students from India, providing them with vital opportunities for visibility and engagement. Young researchers under 35 will have the chance to win five Young Marine Biologist Awards for their research presentations at the event.
MECOS 4 has also introduced five memorial awards named after prominent figures in marine fisheries research: Dr. S. Jones, Dr. M. Devaraj, Dr. N.R. Menon, Dr. R. Reghuprasad, and Dr. P.S.B.R. James.
Dr. George added, "We anticipate generating actionable recommendations for policymakers and industry leaders to foster sustainable ocean management and conservation for future generations. The event will also showcase a fish, agri, and marine expo where research institutions and industries will unveil their innovations and products."