FROM AMBITION TO ACTION COASTAL FUTURES 2026 FINAL CALL FOR ABSTRACT SUBMISSIONS

From Ambition to Action 

Coastal Futures 2026 Final Call for Abstract Submissions

Coastal Futures, the UK’s largest ocean and coastal conference, returns in January 2026, offering delegates an opportunity to engage with the most pressing issues facing our seas today and into the future.

With a legacy of fostering collaboration across policy, science, industry and communities, Coastal Futures 2026 will once again bring together over 750 delegates from more than 200 organisations for two days of knowledge sharing, networking and action-oriented discussion.

This year’s theme, “From Ambition to Action,” calls on ocean leaders and practitioners to move beyond dialogue and drive tangible progress towards a thriving and sustainable ocean future.

Flexible Access: Attend In Person or Online

For those unable to attend in London, Coastal Futures 2026 offers a live online streaming option alongside a flexible ticket structure designed to make participation as accessible as possible.
Find ticket information here: https://site.corsizio.com/event/68a5f42064a7105bd6c5db83

Delegates facing other barriers to participation are encouraged to contact the organisers to discuss reasonable accommodations.

Call for Abstracts – Deadline: Friday 17 October 2025

The Ocean and Coastal Futures team invites abstract submissions for Coastal Futures 2026. This is an opportunity to contribute to dynamic discussions, share insights and gain valuable feedback from peers.

The 2026 programme will explore six key themes designed to turn ideas into action:

1. Shared stewardship
2. Balancing blue growth
3. Coastal resilience & community well-being
4. Innovating for a healthy ocean
5. Planning our ocean space
6. Action & accountability

Further details on each theme are available at: https://coastal-futures.net/

Submit your abstract here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VN93JML

Building on last year’s highly acclaimed panel on the future of fishing—with representatives from the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations, the Scottish Creel Fishermen’s Federation, and the Association of Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities—Coastal Futures 2026 will continue to ensure that fisheries voices are central to the conversation.

Supporting the Next Generation: Coastal Futures Bursary Now Open

As part of its ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, Coastal Futures has launched its third annual Bursary Programme. The bursary supports young people aged 18–25, and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds facing financial barriers to participation, enabling them to contribute to and learn from the UK’s most influential marine conference.

Applications close at 12:00 GMT on 7 November 2025.
Apply here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/K8DKG6B

Become a 2026 Conference Partner

Coastal Futures has been at the centre of UK ocean, coastal and water debate for over three decades. It’s the largest ocean event of its kind in the UK with Minister Emma Hardy delivering the opening address in 2025. To find out more about partnering with the conference, you review  the sponsorship brochure: https://coastal-futures.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Coastal-Futures-2026-partner-pack.pdf

About Coastal Futures

Coastal Futures is the UK’s leading annual ocean conference, bringing together scientists, policymakers, NGOs, industry leaders, and community voices to address the future of our coasts and seas. With a history of facilitating collaboration and driving action, the event provides a platform for sharing cutting-edge research, innovative policy ideas, and practical solutions.

Images © Coastal Futures