The recently published 2023 Ocean and Climate Change Dialogue Informal Summary report has highlighted an urgent need for better ocean-centric research and data management, in order to effectively integrate the crucial ally into climate commitments.
It emphasises collaboration with the private sector, Indigenous People, local communities, vulnerable groups and youth to address policy barriers, promote effective conservation efforts and facilitate investments to sheild the oceans from further harm.
The ocean dialogue took place on June 13 – 14, with the report, prepared by the dialogue co-facilitators Niall O’Dea and Julio Cordano, offering a summary of the discussions on the two topics: coastal ecosystem restoration, including blue carbon, and fisheries and food security.
In addition to highlighting key messages and ways forward, the discussions also offered a vital space to understand and build ocean-centric climate action, enhance collaboration, and illustrate needs, opportunities and case studies.
Global Stocktake At COP28 Could Emphasise Ocean-Centric Action
The Informal Summary report came just months after the 2023 IPCC Climate Change Synthesis report noted the raging emergency has already introduced substantial changes to ocean ecosystems and triggered related loss and damage worldwide.
It also stresses the need for countries to incorporate ocean-related mandates from the COP26 Summit in Glasgow and COP27 in Sharm El Sheikh into their national climate objectives and UNFCCC processes, including global stocktake political outcomes.
At COP28 in Dubai, the first global stocktake – an assessment of progress in implementing the 2015 Paris Agreement – will be a unique opportunity to underscore the importance of the ocean in the global response to climate change.
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The GST could also help encourage guidelines to integrate ocean-based measures into national climate goals and policies. It remains to be seen how well the upcoming climate conference will bring together the international community to foster effective and long-lasting solutions.
