North West Coastal Forum

Join us for North West Marine Ecosystems 2026!

Are you curious about the health of the Irish Sea and the activity taking place beneath its surface?

Join us for an inspiring and engaging day exploring the latest developments, research, and collaborations shaping the North West marine environment. The conference will bring together experts, practitioners, and organisations working across the Irish Sea region to share knowledge, ideas, and enthusiasm for our marine ecosystems.

The programme will feature talks from leading specialists covering a wide range of topics — from the oceanography of the Irish Sea and marine mammal conservation, to the condition of our seabed and seashore environments. Together, these sessions will provide a unique overview of the challenges, opportunities, and innovations within the North West marine space.

The North West Marine Ecosystems (NWME) initiative continues to grow, building on the success and momentum of the South West Marine Ecosystems (SWME) and EASTME initiatives. SWME has been running successfully since 2008, while EASTME launched in 2024 and continues to expand each year. NWME began its own journey last year with a successful pilot conference held in Lancaster, and we are excited to continue developing this network and community.

Interested in learning more about the initiative and staying connected?

Would you like to contribute your expertise through our Communities of Practice or help shape next year’s conference? Visit our website to find out more and sign up for updates.

The latest draft programme is attached.
Please note that the programme may be subject to change.