The Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) at the University of Aveiro (UA) is proud to play a key role in shaping the Portuguese Pavilion at EXPO 2025 Osaka, under the theme “Blue Resilience Dialogue – Ocean.” This theme was chosen to highlight Portugal’s leadership in the scientific and economic exploration of the ocean, showcasing its central role in shaping past, present, and future international relations and driving sustainable development.
“Our participation in EXPO 2025 Osaka is a testament to the University of Aveiro’s commitment to ocean knowledge, cutting-edge innovation in blue biotechnology, and international cooperation,” said Helena Vieira, researcher from CESAM/DAO and team leader. Her remarks were echoed by CESAM’s director, Amadeu Soares: “This is a unique opportunity to share our science with the world and to inspire new connections around sustainable futures for the ocean.”
As part of a national effort to emphasize Portugal’s deep-rooted connection to the sea, CESAM/UA contributed to the Pavilion’s conceptual and scientific development, with a special focus on the promising field of blue biotechnology. Building on the University’s cutting-edge research and innovation in this area, CESAM/UA provided a wide range of materials, including concepts, texts, images, videos, and national success stories, that demonstrate Portugal’s advances in the sustainable use of marine bioresources, the development of new bioproducts, and ocean-based solutions to global challenges.
Blue biotechnology, one of the most dynamic and fast-growing sectors of the blue economy, features prominently in the Pavilion’s narrative. Thanks to CESAM/UA’s contributions, international visitors will discover how marine organisms are being used to develop new pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food products, and innovative environmental technologies, supported by real-world examples from Portuguese research and industry.
Under the motto “The Ocean as a Global Future,” the Portuguese Pavilion will offer millions of visitors from around the world an interactive experience that explores how the ocean shapes cultures and economies and underpins the planet’s resilience. EXPO 2025 will take place from April to October on Yumeshima Island, Japan, and is expected to attract more than 28 million visitors.
For more information about CESAM/UA work in blue biotechnology, visit www-cesam-la.pt/en