Integrating Science, Policy, and Society for Ocean Governance and Sustainability

The Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research (IAI) marked a milestone in 2023 when the 19 Member States approved the creation of the Transdisciplinary Ocean Science Program during its Conference of the Parties (IAI CoP 31). Since then, the IAI has established itself as a leading regional platform addressing critical challenges at the ocean-climate-biodiversity-governance nexus, while also considering socio-economic issues impacting coastal communities. This presentation highlights the advancements made under the Transdisciplinary Ocean Science Program, showcasing ongoing collaborations, strategic partnerships, and upcoming funding opportunities across the Americas and beyond, particularly through the Collaborative Research Action Oceans 2 call by the Belmont Forum. 
 
The IAI’s Transdisciplinary Ocean Science Program promotes solutions-oriented research and actions by fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including scientific communities, local populations, and indigenous knowledge systems. Among the key initiatives supported by the IAI is the Sargassum project, funded by the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF). This project tackles the ecological and socio-economic impacts of Sargassum blooms in the Caribbean. Another standout initiative is the Blue One Health project, led in Brazil by Fiocruz. This networking initiative investigates the interconnections between ocean health, biodiversity, and human health to strengthen governance frameworks across Latin America and the Caribbean.  
 
Additionally, the Science, Technology, and Policy (STeP) program has empowered science diplomacy fellows to address marine pollution, with a particular focus on plastic policies. These fellows have analyzed initiatives at international, national, and subnational levels to advance knowledge and develop innovative governance models, culminating in the publication of two influential policy articles. The STeP program equips emerging leaders with the skills necessary to effectively integrate scientific evidence into policymaking, thereby enhancing the capacity of countries across the Americas to tackle complex environmental challenges effectively.  
 
The IAI’s Science Diplomacy Center continues to strengthen its role by convening multi-stakeholder dialogues and building capacity. A recent training session in Panama exemplified this commitment, uniting policymakers, scientists, and community leaders to address governance challenges in estuarine regions. This initiative highlighted the critical importance of science diplomacy, promoted regional collaboration, and strengthened evidence-based decision-making, culminating in the publication of a comprehensive white paper.   
 
Looking ahead, the IAI is actively preparing for the CRA Oceans 2 call by the Belmont Forum, emphasizing the training of researchers for transdisciplinary initiatives and the funding of collaborative research projects aligned with global priorities. These efforts aim to enhance the IAI’s transdisciplinary ocean science framework, driving critical research at the nexus of ocean health, climate change, biodiversity, and governance, while addressing socio-economic challenges in coastal communities.  
 
In summary, the IAI is a key intergovernmental regional actor in bridging science, policy, and societal needs to advance sustainable ocean governance, fostering resilient and equitable futures for coastal communities across the Americas and beyond.