The European Union (EU) has honored the Spanish project “Ulysses Data for Science” for its scientific efforts in preserving the oceans. During the Annual forum of the “Restore our ocean and waters” Mission — a joint initiative by the EU and the European Commission — “Ulysses Data for Science” was recognized for its groundbreaking use of data intelligence to enhance the management and safeguarding of water resources.

Held in Brussels, the event gathered over 1,800 participants, including Commissioner Costas Kadis and Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva, alongside other key figures from political, scientific, investment, and civil society sectors.

This initiative aims to play a central role in shaping the upcoming European Ocean Pact and the future EU Ocean Research and Innovation Strategy, as part of the broader goal to meet environmental and sustainability targets set for 2030. To support these objectives, European institutions annually present awards to innovative projects that make significant contributions to the restoration and preservation of marine and freshwater ecosystems. In this 2025 edition, the Spanish project “Ulysses Data for Science” stood out for its major contribution to advancing the goals set by the international community.

Progress and commitments

Thanks to a €400 million investment from Horizon Europe, the Mission has funded 67 projects across 223 demonstration sites, with initiatives ranging from oyster reef restoration to drone-based plastic waste mapping.

The Mission has also mobilized 16 Member States, over 30 regions, and 70 municipalities, amassing more than 1,100 commitments under the Mission Charter — reinforcing collective dedication to protecting oceans and waters.

Looking ahead

The Forum highlighted the urgent need to scale and replicate solutions across Europe, with a special focus on the Mission Lighthouses, which facilitate the expansion of innovative technologies at the river basin level.

In addition, the EU Blue Champions funding scheme was presented, developed in collaboration with the European Investment Bank (EIB), along with the new EIT Water initiative — both aimed at strengthening investment and accelerating project implementation.

The event reaffirmed the international community’s commitment to ensuring a resilient, productive, and healthy ocean, positioning the Mission as a key pillar in the transformation of Europe’s blue economy.