As the pace and complexity of socioecological and environmental change accelerate, the need for robust, adaptive, and ecosystem-informed scientific advice has never been greater. This theme session will explore how ICES is evolving to meet the growing demand for advice that is not only scientifically rigorous but also resilient to future challenges—particularly those posed by climate change, biodiversity loss, and shifting societal expectations.
The session will examine how ICES is integrating emerging scientific trends [1], such as ensemble modelling, spatial stock assessments, interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research, and socio-ecological systems thinking, into its advisory processes. It will highlight the development of new frameworks and guidelines that support multiannual, multispecies, and cross-sectoral advice, as well as the increasing use of ecosystem and fisheries overviews to contextualise sectoral decisions within broader environmental and societal goals [2].
Participants will be invited to reflect on how ICES data, science and advice can remain relevant and credible across diverse requester domains—from fisheries and aquaculture to biodiversity conservation and marine spatial planning. Examples of real-time data and information through robust and credible interactive and online advisory products will be show cased. The session will also explore how ICES is responding to new policy drivers and the growing emphasis on nature-positive and climate-resilient management.
By showcasing examples of innovation in advice delivery, including hybrid participation models, transparent assessment frameworks, and the integration of social and economic dimensions, this session will provide a platform for dialogue on how to future-proof ICES science and advice. It will also consider the institutional and collaborative shifts needed to support this transformation, including capacity building, data stewardship, and enhanced engagement with stakeholders and rightsholders.
This session aims to foster a forward-looking conversation on how ICES can continue to deliver trusted, ecosystem-informed advice that supports conservation, management, and sustainability goals in a rapidly changing world.
