After several professional experiences, Sander Steenacker wanted to tell a new story. And preferably one that was innovative, preferably also economically profitable and made a positive contribution to people and the planet. That search led to … land-based seaweed cultivation.

The importance of nature-based coastal defenses, like sand dunes, is clear, yet legislative challenges make their implementation difficult. Attempts are being made to overcome these hurdles by developing strategies and policies that support nature-based coastal defenses.

2024 was a year of progress and growth for the Flemish blue economy. We look back with pride on a number of major achievements, ranging from new projects and members to impactful events and international collaborations.

From 7 to 9 October, a Flemish delegation led by Blue Cluster went on a prospecting trip to Scotland. The trip was linked to the Floating Offshore Wind trade fair in Aberdeen, and included various meetings in the context of floating wind farms and dismantling of offshore structures.

From 4 to 5 December, WindEurope EoLIS 2024 took place in Gothenburg, Sweden. The conference focuses on what happens to wind turbines that are at the end of their life. Blue Cluster was present, and we gladly share our most important findings with you.

On Thursday 5 December, the Belgian Construction Awards 2024 took place. The Bankbusters consortium managed to win the silver medal in the 'Climate Future Projects' category. Congratulations to all partners in the project.

With every high tide and storm surge, coastal properties face increased risks. The SUSANA project is transforming these challenges into opportunities with a methodology that reveals the untapped value of sand dunes in flood protection.

The Belgian federal government has opted for a tender procedure to allocate the construction and operation of additional offshore wind farms in the Princess Elisabeth zone. The Federal Public Service for the Economy has now launched the procedure for the first lot.

In the SWiM project, six partners join forces to conduct research into the combination of marine technologies in the Belgian North Sea. The focus is on an ecologically sustainable integration of floating solar panels in wind farms.