Ocean Decade

Ocean Decade. The United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) is a global framework established by the United Nations General Assembly to catalyze transformative ocean science. Coordinated by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, it aims to reverse the cycle of decline in ocean health and create improved conditions for sustainable development. The initiative mobilizes the global scientific community, policymakers, the private sector, and civil society around a common agenda for the ocean.

Background and launch

The concept for this major international effort emerged from growing recognition within the United Nations system of the critical role of science in addressing ocean challenges. The proposal was championed by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission and gained formal endorsement through a resolution by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2017. Its official launch was delayed from 2020 to 2021 due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, with a virtual kick-off event originating from UNESCO headquarters in Paris. The decade builds upon preceding international frameworks, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goal 14, as well as the findings of the World Ocean Assessment.

Goals and objectives

The primary goal is to generate the scientific knowledge and foster the partnerships needed to achieve "the science we need for the ocean we want." This vision is articulated through seven key outcomes, including a clean, healthy, resilient, productive, predicted, safe, and accessible ocean. Objectives focus on filling critical knowledge gaps, enhancing multi-hazard warning systems like those for tsunamis, and developing science-based solutions for major issues such as ocean acidification and marine pollution. A core aim is to strengthen the connection between ocean science and the needs of society, particularly in Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries.

Implementation and initiatives

Implementation is driven by a global network of endorsed "Decade Actions," which include programs, projects, and activities contributing to the strategic objectives. These range from large-scale research programs like the Global Ocean Observing System to community-led conservation projects. Major collaborative efforts include the Deep Ocean Observing Strategy and the Ocean Biomolecular Observing Network. The UNESCO-IOC provides central coordination, while implementation is decentralized, encouraging participation from entities like The Ocean Cleanup, Monaco, and numerous academic institutions such as the University of Rhode Island.

Key themes and challenges

The decade addresses interconnected thematic challenges central to ocean sustainability. A primary theme is mitigating the impacts of climate change on the ocean, including sea level rise and coral bleaching. Combating marine pollution, especially from plastic waste and agricultural runoff, is another major focus. Additional challenges include restoring marine ecosystems like mangrove forests, promoting sustainable blue economy practices, and improving marine spatial planning. The initiative also emphasizes understanding the ocean's role in global systems and enhancing capacity in regions like the Pacific Islands.

Governance and partners

Governance is overseen by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, which acts as the coordinating agency. Strategic guidance is provided by a Decade Advisory Board comprising experts from institutions like NOAA and the European Commission. A critical governance mechanism is the "Decade Alliance," a high-level group of partners that includes member states such as Norway and Kenya, philanthropic organizations like the Nippon Foundation, and corporations. Implementation relies on a vast network of partners, including the World Meteorological Organization, IUCN, and research bodies like Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

Progress and impact

Initial progress has been marked by the rapid endorsement of hundreds of Decade Actions worldwide and the establishment of regional task forces, including for the Atlantic Ocean and the Western Pacific. Early impact is seen in enhanced support for initiatives like the Global Ocean Acidification Observing Network and the launch of the Ocean Decade Heritage Network to integrate cultural knowledge. The decade has successfully elevated ocean science on the global policy agenda, influencing discussions at forums like the UN Climate Change Conference (COP) and fostering new collaborations between scientists, industries, and communities to achieve its ambitious vision.