Making waves: Marine research project launches with sector-wide workshops

Scientists, political advisors and industry leaders from across the globe came together this week to mark the official launch of a multi-million-pound research project, exploring ways to transform how offshore structures are managed. 

The three-day series of workshops, led by National Oceanography Centre’s Professor Nicola Beaumont and held at Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), officially launched the VALMAS project and sought to shape the direction of the research and foster cross-sector partnership. 

VALMAS (Value of Marine Artificial Structures) is a £5.6 million pound project, which is set to transform how offshore structures are managed. 

Professor Beaumont, Sustainable Marine Economy Mission Network Lead at National Oceanography Centre, said: “This is a vital project that will give decision makers, in government and industry, the tools they need to make informed decisions as part of the UK’s transition to a low carbon energy future. 

“These workshops are the beginning of that journey and demonstrate the importance of collaboration. By fostering strong partnerships from the outset, the initiative aims to deliver impactful outcomes that address real-world challenges. 

“Artificial structures play a crucial role in our energy future and have both positive and negative impacts on the marine environment 

“That’s why this VALMAS research is so important. We hope it will lead to a better understanding of how we can navigate climate change, energy transition and marine conservation. By building our knowledge, informed by evidence, we can safeguard ocean health and support the communities and industries that rely on it.” 

Marine artificial structures (MAS) - which include offshore oil, gas and wind infrastructure, as well as shipwrecks - are increasingly recognised for their complex role in the marine environment. 

While they can offer ecological benefits such as habitat creation and blue carbon capture, they also pose risks that are not yet fully understood. As competition for marine space intensifies, understanding these trade-offs is critical. 

Dr Stephen Watson, Deputy Lead at PML, added: “A crucial part of VALMAS is ensuring that decisions about marine artificial structures aren’t based on ecology alone. 

“By bringing social and economic research into the heart of this work, we can better understand how these structures affect coastal communities, livelihoods, and the wider blue economy. This integrated approach will help ensure that future policies and management decisions are fair, informed, and truly sustainable - benefiting both people and the marine environment.” 

The ambitious VALMAS project, co-funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and the industry-sponsored INSITE Programme, will span four years and involve multiple institutions working together to deliver cutting-edge research.