Courtesy
The Port of Seattle and Washington Maritime Blue are renewing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), continuing their long-standing collaboration on maritime innovation and environmental stewardship. Building on years of successful partnership, this renewed MOU will further enhance the development of the Maritime Innovation Center, reinforcing Washington's position as a leader in maritime innovation and sustainability.
The MOU was authorized by the Port Commission on November 19, establishing a framework for cooperation in areas such as decarbonization, ocean renewable energy, sustainable fishing, and marine conservation.
“This renewed partnership underscores our shared commitment to advancing the Blue Economy,” said Joshua Berger, CEO of Maritime Blue. “By combining our strengths, we can drive innovation that fuels economic growth, safeguards the health of our marine ecosystems, and empowers communities.”
Another initiative under this collaboration, Quiet Sound, includes the installation of hydrophones, which will monitor underwater noise levels and support efforts to protect the endangered Southern Resident killer whales. By detecting and recording underwater sounds, these hydrophones will provide critical data that inform mitigation strategies for marine life affected by commercial vessel noise.
The MOU outlines several strategic initiatives, including the launch of the Maritime Innovation Center at Fishermen's Terminal, which will serve as a hub for emerging maritime companies. The Center aims to facilitate collaboration and support startups focused on the Blue Economy and ocean-based climate solutions.
“This agreement marks an exciting new chapter for the Port of Seattle as we strive to be the greenest port in North America,” said Port of Seattle Executive Director Steve Metruck. “Together with Maritime Blue, we will explore new opportunities in sustainable maritime practices that benefit our economy and environment.”
The partnership also highlights the importance of community engagement and the role of diverse stakeholders in driving positive change. Through joint efforts, including the Youth Maritime Career Launch Program Maritime Blue and the Port of Seattle will work to cultivate a thriving maritime ecosystem that emphasizes justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Maritime Blue is a strategic alliance propelling the Pacific Northwest toward global leadership in ocean- based innovation. We foster collaboration among industry, government, academia, communities, and investors to create sustainable maritime and ocean industries. We empower our region to thrive in the Blue Economy by accelerating innovation and entrepreneurship, centering equity, addressing climate change, restoring marine ecosystems, and building a diverse workforce. Strategic focus areas include maritime decarbonization, renewable ocean energy, sustainable fisheries and seafood, healthy ocean ecosystems, and digital solutions.