![VALMAS [logo]](/themes/valmas-NOC8X/logo.svg){kind=logo}
VALMAS had a strong presence at the SIME 2026 ≈ Structures in the Marine Environment - conference in Newcastle, contributing to key discussions on the future of marine artificial structures in a changing offshore energy landscape.
The project was represented across the programme, with Nicky Beaumont presenting an overview of progress and next steps, and Emma McKinley leading a session on Ocean Literacy. Posters from Steve Watson and Gennadi Lessin showcased work on modelling and decision support tools, while Paul Causon’s poster on nature-inclusive design provided further relevant insights that complement the project’s research.
Thomas Fabian attended the conference and shares his thoughts below:
From my perspective, one of the most valuable aspects of the conference was the diversity of viewpoints represented. Hearing from speakers across different sectors encouraged me to think about familiar challenges in new ways and better appreciate how priorities and perspectives can vary between stakeholders. A particular takeaway came from Andrew Gill’s keynote, which described the sector as being ‘data rich but information poor’. This really emphasised the need to move beyond simply collecting data, towards processing and translating it into meaningful insights – something that strongly aligns with the development of decision support tools within VALMAS.
The second day’s focus on policy also reinforced the importance of designing research with real-world application in mind. It highlighted the need to frame research questions around clear evidence gaps and to engage with stakeholders throughout, ensuring outputs are useful and relevant. Discussion also reinforced the crucial role of NGOs and advisory organisations in translating scientific evidence into formats that policymakers can meaningfully use. At the same time, there was a clear recognition that the pace at which research informs policy still needs to improve, something that initiatives like VALMAS aim to address by making evidence more accessible and actionable.
Overall, SIME 2026 provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on how science, policy and practice can better connect to support sustainable offshore development in the North Sea, and it was great to see how the outputs of VALMAS will support bridging this gap.