Global Ocean Science Report

Charting Capacity for Ocean Sustainability

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Charting Capacity for Ocean Sustainability

Our shared ocean is a life-supporting system for humanity, yet it remains largely unknown. Based on data collected from around the world, the Global Ocean Science Report 2020 (GOSR2020) offers a global record of how, where and by whom ocean science is conducted. By analysing the workforce, infrastructures, equipment, funding, investments, publications, data flow and exchange policies, as well as national strategies, the GOSR monitors our capacity to understand the ocean and seize new opportunities. In its second edition, the GOSR2020 addresses four additional topics: contribution of ocean science to sustainable development; blue patent applications; extended gender analysis; and capacity development in ocean science.

The GOSR2020 is a resource for policymakers, academics and other stakeholders seeking to assess progress towards the sustainable development goals of the UN 2030 Agenda, in particular SDG target 14.a on scientific knowledge, research capacity and transfer of marine technology. The GOSR provides the information for the indicator for target 14.a as the proportion of total research budget allocated to research in the field of ocean science. GOSR2020 not only provides consistent reference information at the start of UN Decade for Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021–2030, it evolves as a living product. The global community is given the online facility to submit and update data on the GOSR portal and consult data to regularly assess progress on the efficiency and impact of policies to develop ocean science capacity.

Access the GOSR Portal for interactive access to the data and findings.

About the IOC of UNESCO:

The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO promotes international cooperation in marine sciences to improve management of the ocean, coasts and marine resources. The IOC enables its 150 Member States to work together by coordinating programmes in capacity development, ocean observations and services, ocean science and tsunami warning. The work of the IOC contributes to the mission of UNESCO to promote the advancement of science and its applications to develop knowledge and capacity, key to economic and social progress, the basis of peace and sustainable development.

For further information, please contact:
Salvatore Aricò (s.arico@unesco.org)