Major Stocktaking of Climate Change Impact on Oceans

Leading researchers from more than 50 countries will share the latest science concerning climate change impacts on ocean ecosystems at the 4th International Symposium on the Effects of Climate Change on the World's Oceans, (Washington D.C., USA, 4—8 June).

 Co-organized by UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC-UNESCO), the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), the North Pacific Marine Science Organization (PICES), and the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the International Symposium, takes place every three to four years.

 Recognizing the ocean's valuable contributions to people’s livelihoods and health, the Symposium provides a unique forum for scientists and experts to share information, highlight activities, build partnerships and shape the future of this important field of research.

 Ending on World Oceans Day, 8 June, the Symposium tackles some of the concerns that have led the UN to proclaim 2021 to 2030 as the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, under IOC-UNESCO’s coordination.

 Building on existing research and initiatives, the Decade will provide a unique opportunity to mobilize resources for ocean science and strengthen the management of marine and coastal areas for the benefit of humanity.

 IOC-UNESCO is also in charge of coordinating international efforts to ensure progress in achieving Goal 14 of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Agenda for 2030 concerning the conservation and sustainable use of the ocean and its resources.

 Vladimir Ryabinin, Executive Secretary of the IOC-UNESCO, will deliver a talk advocating for the contribution of ocean science to ocean sustainability at the Symposium’s session on the UN Ocean Decade (5 June, 8.50 am).

 ****

 IOC-UNESCO Media Contact: Vinicius Lindoso +33(0)145681170  +33(0)789630131)

 Symposium media resource: http://meetings.pices.int/meetings/international/2018/climate-change/media

 Follow the International Symposium: @ECCWO

 More about UNESCO-IOC: http://www.unesco.org/new/en/natural-sciences/ioc-oceans/

 More about World Oceans Day: http://unworldoceansday.org