The members and Secretariat of the European Marine Board are greatly saddened by the untimely passing of our former Chair, Kostas Nittis. Representing his home institution, the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research in Greece, Kostas was an active EMB delegate for many years and was elected Chair in 2011. He served three years in this role with distinction, stepping down in May 2014. Among his many achievements, he led the complex process of drafting the Ostend Declaration (2010) and delivery of the Board’s Navigating the Future IV position paper (2013).
A distinguished oceanographer, Kostas was appointed Secretary General of the EuroGOOS network in 2012. But his sphere of influence extended well beyond his own research field. Through participation in multiple projects and networks, he was a leading figure in Europe for the promotion of marine science and setting the marine research agenda. Those fortunate to have known and worked with Kostas will remember his wisdom, integrity, diplomacy and a steady calmness which concealed a determination to effect positive change. Kostas will be hugely missed by an extensive network of friends and colleagues throughout Europe and beyond. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family at this difficult time.