The United Nations Ocean Decade: A catalyst for international collaboration enhancing ocean monitoring and data | Science
In 2017, the United Nations General Assembly declared the decade from 2021 to 2030 as the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, emphasizing the ocean’s crucial role in sustaining life, bolstering economies, and enhancing human well-being. This initiative is driven by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, which aims to promote a collaborative global effort to harness transformative ocean science solutions. The guiding vision of this decade is encapsulated in the phrase “the science we need for the ocean we want,” highlighting the necessity of interdisciplinary research to address the pressing challenges facing our oceans.
The Decade of Ocean Science seeks to generate essential knowledge and data that can inform policy decisions and support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By focusing on improved knowledge, innovation, and governance, the initiative aims to foster a sustainable relationship between humanity and the ocean. This is particularly crucial given the myriad threats facing marine ecosystems today, including climate change, pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction. For example, the initiative encourages the development of innovative tools and technologies to monitor ocean health, which can lead to better management practices and conservation strategies. Through international collaboration and engagement with various stakeholders, including scientists, policymakers, and local communities, the Decade aims to create a comprehensive framework for sustainable ocean management that benefits both people and the planet.
As we move further into this critical decade, the emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of scientific knowledge into policy frameworks will be paramount. The success of this initiative hinges on the collective efforts of nations, organizations, and individuals committed to safeguarding our oceans. By prioritizing ocean science and its application, we can work towards a more sustainable future that not only protects marine ecosystems but also enhances the livelihoods of millions who rely on the ocean for their survival. The Decade of Ocean Science is not just a call to action; it is a vital opportunity to reshape our relationship with the ocean and ensure its health for generations to come.
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In recognition of the ocean’s essential role in supporting life, the economy, and human well-being, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in 2017 declared 2021 to 2030 the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. Under the vision of “the science we need for the ocean we want” and the mission of catalyzing transformative ocean science solutions for sustainable development, a global effort is being undertaken by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This effort seeks to drive interdisciplinary ocean research to generate the knowledge, data, and tools needed to inform policy and support the Sustainable Development Goals through improved knowledge, innovation, and governance.
