This publication summarises the main messages and recommendations of the recent EMB Position Paper 25 on “Next Generation European Research Vessels: Current Status and Foreseeable Evolution”, which was produced in collaboration with the European Research Vessel Operators (ERVO) community. The Position Paper provided a comprehensive look at the current research vessel fleet in Europe, updating the findings and recommendations of EMB Position Paper 10 from 2007 on “European Ocean Research Fleets - Towards a Common Strategy and Enhanced Use”.
Research vessels and their equipment are one of the most reliable means we have of accessing diverse marine environments to conduct research. Given their role in the changes facing the globe, understanding the ocean and its inhabitants is more important than ever and these marine research infrastructures are therefore critical for supporting the continued development of marine scientific evidence.
The publication outlines why we need research vessels, noting the multiple roles they play in supporting marine science and ocean observing. It presents an overview of the current European fleet and its capabilities, and highlights the importance of transnational access within this context. It also briefly outlines the concerns around training for vessel crew, marine technicians and shore-based staff. It then presents the main recommendations of EMB Position Paper 25.
The Policy Brief can be downloaded here.