Leveraging the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development: bridging science and solutions

2021 marks the launch of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, offering a framework to catalyse transformative ocean science solutions for sustainable development, connecting people and the ocean. As the Ocean Decade begins, experts look to harness data, innovation, science and technology to strengthen the integrated management of the ocean and coasts for the betterment of humanity, something that will only be accomplished through deep intersectoral and public-private partnership. This session, being held in collaboration with UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC-UNESCO), will explore the potential of the Ocean Decade in moving from science to solutions for sustainable development.

Looking ahead to 2030 and beyond, how can the Ocean Decade be leveraged to stimulate the creation of innovative public-private partnership models? How can the work of leaders in the science-technology-innovation nexus, including the next generation of ocean professionals, be amplified through the Ocean Decade? How can relevant science-based knowledge be more equitably generated and used by communities most vulnerable to the current and future changes of the ocean?

Welcome and opening remarks will be provided by His Excellency António Costa, Prime Minister of Portugal