GES4SEAS is strengthening its impact across Europe and beyond through a series of targeted training sessions in 2026, designed to support the uptake of Tikta by policy-makers, scientists, and environmental managers.

These sessions focus on the GES4SEAS toolbox—particularly the Tikta software and its key modules for Cumulative Effects Assessment (CEA) and NEAT (Nested Environmental status Assessment Tool). Together, these tools support evidence-based decision-making and reporting under key European frameworks such as the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive (MSPD), Regional Seas Conventions, and the Habitats and Birds Directives.

The training programme is explicitly designed for end users involved in environmental assessment and policy implementation. By working directly with these stakeholders, GES4SEAS aims to ensure that its tools are not only scientifically robust but also operationally relevant. These sessions provide a collaborative environment to test functionalities, explore real-world applications, and gather critical feedback to refine and validate the toolbox.

Since February 2026, GES4SEAS has already delivered training sessions across multiple countries, including Greece (online, 17 February), Ireland (Dublin, 20 February), Denmark (European Environment Agency, 10–11 March), Italy (Rome, 12 March), and Spain (Madrid, hybrid, 17 March). To date, 168 experts and managers have been trained in using Tikta, with participation expected to grow significantly in the coming months.

Upcoming sessions are planned in Finland, Germany, Portugal, Turkey, France, Romania, and the United Kingdom, alongside a dedicated summer school in Spain and additional international events.

Feedback from participants is already playing a key role in improving the toolbox. Users have contributed valuable insights that are helping to enhance functionalities, optimise workflows, and identify and resolve technical issues—demonstrating the importance of co-development in delivering tools that meet real-world needs.

Through this expanding training programme, GES4SEAS continues to bridge the gap between science and policy, ensuring that its tools are effectively supporting ecosystem-based management across Europe.

Explore the GES4SEAS toolbox and Tikta here: www.ges4seas.eu/toolbox