The *ENVRI Board held its in-person meeting in Marseille on October 7–8, 2025, gathering representatives from 12 Research Infrastructures (RIs) and invited guests to discuss strategic developments and collaborative opportunities across the environmental research infrastructure landscape. Chaired by Eija Juurola, the meeting focused on innovation, governance, communications, and alignment with European funding frameworks.
A central topic was the progress of the ENVRINNOV project, which aims to establish the ENVRI Innovation Hub (EIH) as a modular, cost-effective platform for shared services. The proposed tiered model would offer flexible governance and operational structures, with funding opportunities anticipated through Horizon Europe calls such as COST Action and European Innovation Ecosystems. The Board discussed challenges related to federated commitments and innovation within rigid RI structures, agreeing on the importance of incremental steps toward long-term sustainability.
Updates from ENVRI-Hub NEXT and OSCARS highlighted intensified cooperation across clusters and the need to align with EOSC developments. The ENVRI-Hub was confirmed as a Competence Centre for the community, though concerns were raised about the lack of dedicated personnel to support users. A pilot helpdesk system was proposed to manage incoming requests and track workload, with plans to build a network of experts over time.
The concept of an ENVRI Node was also discussed, envisioned as a streamlined access point for RI services within the EOSC framework. Participants agreed on the strategic value of pursuing the Node, with plans to engage General Assemblies and explore legal structures such as associations or memoranda of understanding. The Node would enhance visibility, simplify access, and support long-term sustainability for participating infrastructures.
Communications strategy was another key focus. The Board reviewed proposals to strengthen brand protection, editorial workflows, and RI involvement. A draft strategy was presented, including guidelines for brand usage, project tiers, and approval workflows. The Board supported delegating brand-related decisions to the Communications Team and maintaining coordination through the Editorial Board, while ensuring RIs are informed and engaged.
Additional discussions covered upcoming Horizon Europe calls, the establishment of an Exchange Forum with Copernicus, and reflections on strategic priorities from the BEERi Retreat. The Board emphasized the importance of maintaining cohesion through a mix of virtual and in-person meetings, agreeing to hold four meetings annually—three online and one face-to-face.
Action points included confirming RI contacts for ENVRINNOV, contributing to upcoming proposals, and preparing for the next meetings in January and April 2026. The Board reaffirmed its commitment to collaborative innovation, strategic alignment, and strengthening the ENVRI community’s role in shaping the future of environmental research infrastructures.
*The ENVRI Board is the strategic decision-making body of the ENVRI community, which brings together environmental Research Infrastructures (RIs) across Europe. It serves as a collaborative platform for coordinating joint activities, shaping policy positions, and aligning efforts in innovation, governance, and sustainability. The Board includes representatives from participating RIs and meets regularly to discuss shared priorities, respond to European funding opportunities, and guide the development of common services such as the ENVRI-Hub and Innovation Hub. EIRENE, as a European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI) Project, is a member of ENVRI Board.
