In the lead up to the Ocean Decade, a first gathering is planned for next month in Barcelona. The conference will bring together scientists, companies, universities, NGOs, and political representatives to discuss how research can directly inform action. Rafael González-Quirós, a representative of the Spanish Oceanographic Institute and the UNESCO International Oceanographic Commission, explains that the aim is not only to advance science but to translate knowledge into concrete solutions for real-world problems. The conference is organized by the IOC and reflects a broader push to connect scientific insights with policy and business decisions in a way that accelerates tangible progress.
Oceans have absorbed more than 90 percent of the excess heat trapped by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The scientific community warns that climate change will increasingly stress marine ecosystems that underpin human life, making urgent, multi-faceted action essential. Organizers emphasize that scientific findings must be integrated into political and economic decision making so that investments reflect what the research shows and all stakeholders move forward together with clear direction.
Port electrification
The blue economy is on an upward trajectory, says González-Quirós, who notes that current trends are moving in the right direction. Studies point to a forthcoming framework of European regulations, with 2024 efforts aimed at reducing emissions. In practice, this may require ships to alter speeds or adapt operations, and it will involve coordinated actions by port authorities, ship operators, and regional governments. One concrete example is the electrification project at the Port of Barcelona docks, enabling vessels to switch off engines while docked in urban areas. The IOC member adds that progress must be steady and deliberate in light of the serious challenges posed by climate change in the ocean environment.
What began as a plan to host the conference in a low-lying island nation at risk from rising seas evolved into a strong desire among Barcelona’s city leadership and regional authorities. The Barcelona Capital Náutica Foundation and a robust blue economy ecosystem are central to these efforts, signaling a strategic shift toward sustainable maritime innovation and regional resilience.
10 documents
The Barcelona meeting is expected to produce a set of ten documents outlining practical steps to advance key priorities. These include tackling ocean pollution, safeguarding marine and terrestrial resources, protecting and restoring biodiversity, and developing sustainable food systems for a growing global population. The package also emphasizes building resilience across geographic regions most exposed to climate-related impacts.
Experts have noted that interconnected challenges require coordinated action. The emphasis is on breaking down silos so that policies, funding, and monitoring work in harmony. Strengthening collaboration among researchers, governments, and industry is seen as essential to ensure that progress is tangible and benefits reach communities worldwide. The conference aims to chart a cohesive course that aligns scientific evidence with public and private sector initiatives, driving meaningful improvements for oceans and the people who rely on them. The work will benefit from ongoing attention to funding, governance, and transparent evaluation of implementation across regions. The integration of knowledge into practice is the shared objective, with the ocean community seeking to translate research into accelerated, measurable results for a sustainable future.