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Since COP21, new elements of knowledge came to light, thus enhancing our understanding of the interactions between ocean, climate and biodiversity. The well-being of marine ecosystems is recognized as central to combat climate change, highlighting the need to support and develop ocean science.

In view of the launching of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), the Ocean and Climate Platform and IOC-UNESCO are organizing a High Level Scientific Conference on 10 and 11 September 2018, at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.

The conference aims at synthesizing recent scientific progress on ocean and climate interplays; evaluating the latest ocean-climate trends within the context of increased ocean action; and reflecting on ways to move “from science to action”.
Organized around four sessions, the event will bring together scientists from multiple disciplines, civil society, businesses, decision-makers and UN entities, to share their expertise on ocean and climate related issues.

September 10:
• Session 1 (2pm-3.30pm) – What does science tell us today about the ocean?
• Session 2 (4pm-5.30pm) – An intergovernmental organization perspective on ocean, climate and biodiversity knowledge

September 11:
• Session 3 (9am-10.30am) – From science to action: how can the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development make a difference?
• Session 4 (11am-12.30pm) – From science to action: which policies?

Special Sessions:
• September 10 (9am-12.30pm) – Sciences cooperation, policies interfaces and SDGs in South Atlantic Ocean / Organized by the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD) and the University of Western Brittany
• September 11 (2pm-4pm) – Academic research: which contributions to the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science? / Organized by the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the National Research Alliance for the Environment (AllEnvi)