Down by the Water:  Interdisciplinary Studies of Dynamic Shorelines, Maritime Communities and their Boats 🌊

Today, I had the opportunity to present my research at the conference hosted by the Wilberforce Institute and organised by the Energy and Environment Institute at the University of Hull. The title of my research is Transforming Tides: Sociocultural and Environmental Impacts of Urbanisation in St. Julian’s, Malta. It examines the profound sociocultural transformations within this fishing community, shaped by the pressures of urbanisation and gentrification.

Through a sociological lens, I explored how water functions as a cultural and political force, the enduring symbolism of traditional boats and fishing gear, and the critical importance of safeguarding communal spaces and maritime heritage.

By upholding unconventional socio-environmental concepts that can inform broader frameworks, my work highlights the necessity of balancing tradition, resilience, and sustainable progress.

I am glad to have been part of such a vibrant academic dialogue and to contribute to the understanding of maritime communities’ sociological dynamics.

It was a fantastic opportunity to engage with an interdisciplinary group of participants, presenting exciting prospects for future research collaborations.