Blue Innovation 2022
The impact of climate change is evident, especially on innocent animals and the environment. Santa Cruz is the birthplace of mainland surfing, home to robust marine biology research programs, and thousands of residents passionate about protecting the ocean, beaches, and wildlife.
Scientists, industry, non-profits, and community members came together on September 11th for Blue Innovation, a one-of-a-kind event focused on sharing ocean and water-related research and solutions.
The band Cruz Control kicked off the event with some calm tunes as community members trickled in. Approximately 45 different organizations were present on September 11th to exhibit their work to the community and engage with fellow ocean and water stewards.
UCSC Kroeker Lab at Blue Innovation.
Several groups of researchers from UC Santa Cruz brought their teams and labs including the Ecological Aquaculture Lab, Conservation Genomics Consortium, Ayzner Group, The Kroeker Lab, and Paytan Biogeochemistry Lab.
Companies from Santa Cruz and Biarritz, France brought their products and solutions to the public at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center located minutes near a stunning view of the ocean.
French company, Pragma Industries, brought two hydrogen bicycles for event goers to test ride around the Seymour Center parking lot. Pragma Industries is specialized in compact fuel cells, hydrogen energy, portable systems & light mobility-1st homologated hydrogen-powered electric bicycle.
X Academy pictured with remote controlled electric wheel chair.
Santa Cruz non-profit, X Academy brought out a few students who showcased several of their underwater ROVs and other interesting devices at Blue Innovation including an modified remote control electric wheel chair which left guests entertained and intrigued. X Academy focuses on providing STEAM programs for youth and they recently competed in the MATE Underwater Robotics Competition World Championships.
Neil Erickson Band performing at Blue Innovation.
As the day progressed, the Neil Erickson Band performed upbeat songs and more and more visitors arrived. Countercurrent’s larger than life 20,000 recycled golf ball wave statue was a crowd favorite. A variety of exhibitors brought hands on activities for little ones as well as a tank with sea urchins. World renowned photographer, Frans Lanting was present to showcase his work and new book, Bay of Life which highlights the Monterey Bay region.
Exhibitor Taylor Lane from The Cigarette Surfboard commented “There was a constant flow of people visiting our booth and curious about our project. People seemed genuinely interested and excited to be there! A lot of people left inspired and more aware of the impacts of cigarette butt waste, along with excitement for the mission of our project and film in the works!”
Despite traffic delays caused by Ironman 70.3 competition, approximately 1,000 guests were able to make their way to Blue Innovation. The Blue Innovation team would like to express their gratitude and thanks to all exhibitors, staff, volunteers, and visitors who took the time to make the event spectacular.
Special thanks to our primary sponsor Santa Cruz County Bank. Their support for all of the organizations in our community is the key to a healthy ecosystem.
And thanks to LifeAid for providing the community with free drinks, Syllable Coffee, Surfin’ Turf Food Truck, and Pana Food Truck for keeping attendees fueled up!