Safe Sea: Research Infrastructures for Ocean Observation and Safety

The workshop “Safe Sea: Research Infrastructures for Ocean Observation and Safety” (Salerno, 23 June 2025) marked a key milestone in the implementation of the ITINERIS project (Italian Integrated Environmental Research Infrastructures System) [1], funded under Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). Organized by the National Research Council – Institute of Marine Sciences (CNR-ISMAR), the event brought together researchers, institutional representatives, and local stakeholders to discuss the role of marine observation technologies in ensuring maritime safety, environmental protection, and the sustainable growth of the Blue Economy [2, 3]. A central focus was the presentation of two newly installed high-frequency (HF) radar systems located in Battipaglia and Anacapri, developed within the ITINERIS marine component, the Italian Integrated Ocean Observing System (IT-IOOS). These innovative instruments measure surface currents in real time, supporting safe navigation, search and rescue operations, pollution prevention, and coastal management. The event also showcased the ITINERIS Marine Hub, a national digital platform that pro- vides access to marine data, services, and derived products according to the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) [4]. The Hub serves as a single-entry point for the scientific community, institutions, and maritime operators, fostering open data sharing and interoperability across national and European systems. Beyond its technological dimension, the workshop highlighted the value of collaboration be- tween research, institutions, and territorial stakeholders. Discussions emphasized the strategic importance of the new infrastructures for maritime safety and environmental governance, and their integration into international networks such as EuroGOOS, JERICO, and the ESFRI Roadmap 2026. Key outcomes included a commitment to extend radar coverage in the Gulf of Salerno through the installation of a third antenna, to complement it with meteo-oceanographic stations and coastal webcams, and to develop high-resolution forecasting models tailored to local needs.The initiative attracted broad participation and media visibility, reinforcing public awareness of marine research and its societal relevance. It demonstrated how national research infras- tructures like ITINERIS can act as strategic enablers of innovation, safety, and sustainability in the marine and coastal domain, contributing to Italy’s leadership in ocean observation and to the long-term development of the Blue Economy.