TM33 | Blue Carbon in the Global Ocean

TM33

Blue Carbon in the Global Ocean

Convener: William Austin | Co-convener: Kirsten Isensee, Vanessa Hatje

Thu, 05 Jun, 12:45–13:45 (CEST)|Room 7

The UN Ocean Decade Programme for Blue Carbon in the Global Ocean (GO-BC), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC-UNESCO) propose to co-host a Townhall Meeting to promote the fundamental values of science (biogeochemistry, ecology, oceanography, etc.) which are increasingly required to deliver the evidence that underpins policy change, supports a just transition, and creates credible and emergent nature-based solutions (and markets for finance) that are necessary to achieve meaningful and lasting ocean solutions.

A science-focused dialogue on blue carbon opportunities and challenges will be particularly timely at OOS2025, demonstrating how blue carbon initiatives can benefit climate, people, and nature.

This Townhall Meeting will bring together leading blue carbon researchers and supports a growing interest in blue carbon science among the UN Ocean community - reflected in a growing number of scientific publications, science-based ocean actions, and the emergent nature restoration markets that are underpinned by blue carbon evidence.

Panelists will be solicited widely to ensure that the dialogue captures and articulates (i) the ethos and value of fundamental scientific research; (ii) the need to support (and fund) blue skies research; (iii) the value of investment in early career researchers as future ocean leaders; (iv) the opportunities and added value of engaging local communities (and youth) as meaningful project research partners; (v) the need for regional knowledge hubs to be established and to share best practice and scientific skills to build in-country capacity and knowledge; and (vi) the growing need for an ocean science community who understand and are prepared to engage with policy makers and others to effect fundamental changes in the management of our seas.

All are welcome (science , media, and policy); refreshments will be provided.