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Heriot-Watt's leading academics joined MPs, industry collaborators and education partners at the House of Commons, to highlight Heriot-Watt's critical marine research at a Year of the Sea parliamentary reception.
As part of the Year of the Sea we are aiming to lead debate on the opportunities around the blue economy - which has Scotland written all over it and we're committed to driving that forward.
Hosted by Rt Hon Alistair Carmichael MP, the event showcased a range of distinctive Scottish and international projects and highlighted the various opportunities arising from the development of the 'blue economy'. Exhibits covered the environmental impact of plastics in our oceans, scientific diving in Malaysia, and a groundbreaking initiative to restore Native European oysters to the Dornoch Firth.
As well as learning more about Heriot-Watt's pioneering research in the field of marine ecology, technology and conservation, guests enjoyed speeches from Dr Sandy Kerr, Associate Professor and Director of Heriot-Watt University's International Centre for Island Technology (ICIT) at the University's Orkney Campus; and Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor.
Professor Richard A. Williams said, “As part of the Year of the Sea we are aiming to lead debate on the opportunities around the blue economy - which has Scotland written all over it and we're committed to driving that forward.”
Dr Sandy Kerr said, “I'm proud to be part of a global institution with ambition, a university that is prepared to try new things, prepared to innovate in how it teaches and how it does research. At Heriot-Watt we are prepared to think globally but will also try to act locally wherever we are. Doing science at the local level - doing science with people, not to them - can inspire future entrepreneurs, it can solve problems from communities, and it can deliver significant and sustainable economic development."
With over 70 percent of the Earth's surface covered in water, the sustainable use of this resource is critical to sustaining life on our planet: as a source of energy, raw materials and food; a means of transporting people and goods; a mechanism of storing atmospheric carbon; and, a means of providing opportunities for recreation. Collectively, the sustainable exploitation of our marine resources is referred to as the blue economy.
Heriot-Watt is well-placed to address the related opportunities and challenges with its interdisciplinary and global research, spanning a diverse range of projects from energy generation, conservation and marine technology.
Throughout 2018, the University is celebrating its Year of the Sea, engaging with government, schools, families, business and the third sector. More than 17,000 members of the public have attended a series of events, lectures and activities aimed at raising awareness of marine-related research to people of all ages.