Exploring the Relationship between the Ocean Economy, Innovation, and Security

The field of ocean governance has evolved into a multidisciplinary arena encompassing economic development, technological innovation, and security. Recent decades have witnessed an unprecedented expansion of the ocean economy, driven by advances in maritime trade, resource exploitation, and emerging sectors such as renewable energy. Simultaneously, innovation is reshaping the landscape with technologies like unmanned vessels, smart infrastructure, and data-driven marine spatial planning. Yet, while these trends promise substantial benefits, they also raise new challenges for maritime security, from safeguarding supply chains to ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure. Amid these developments, discussions often remain siloed, failing to holistically consider the interdependence of economic, technological, and security imperatives. Notably, influential debates - such as those surrounding offshore wind development - frequently overlook security and regulatory impacts, highlighting a persistent gap in integrated ocean governance frameworks.This Research Topic aims to bridge the disciplinary divides by examining how the ocean economy, innovation, and maritime security intersect and influence one another in diverse geographical settings. The primary objective is to elucidate the dynamic relationships among these fields, evaluating how policy, practice, and technological change can both create vulnerabilities and unlock synergies for sustainable ocean management. We seek to answer questions such as: How do emerging technologies reshape ocean-based industries and governance? In what ways do economic pursuits affect maritime security concerns, particularly around critical infrastructures? What regulatory and policy strategies are most effective for harmonizing development, innovation, and safety in ocean spaces?This Research Topic focuses on the interplay and integration of the ocean economy, technological innovation, and maritime security, with global and regional emphasis. Papers should present original research, case studies, and policy analyses that develop, critique, or illustrate the ways these dimensions interact and inform each other. We welcome submissions that address, but are not limited to, the following themes:• Maritime trade, resources, and energy in the evolving ocean economy• Policy and regulatory pathways for governing new marine technologies• Security of critical offshore infrastructure, including wind farms and undersea cables• Impacts of climate change on jurisdiction, enforcement, and ocean security• Managing competing uses in marine spatial planning, and implications for innovation and safety• Regional perspectives, especially from developing nations, on integrating development, technology, and security• Approaches to strengthening maritime domain awareness and law enforcement in a changing ocean Topic editors: Sarah Lothian, Prakash Gopal, Rebecca Strating Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78281/exploring-the-relationship-between-the-ocean-economy-innovation-and-security