Science for Ocean Actions
Sustainable management of biological resources: the importance of knowledge for finding regional solutions to global challenges.
Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg has initiated a High-level Panel on Building a Sustainable Ocean Economy, comprising 13 Heads of Government and State and involving the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Special Envoy for the Ocean.The objective is to leverage collective and effective action by the international community, including the UN, regional bodies, governments and private business, in response to global challenges and opportunities.
To showcase the best scientific knowledge in the field and with the aim of substantively contributing to the work of the international High-level Panel, you are hereby invited to attend the “Science for Ocean Actions” Conference that will be convened by the Institute of Marine Research (IMR) in Bergen, Norway from 20-21 November 2018. Your knowledge and expert opinions will make a valuable contribution to understanding the state of marine ecosystems, knowledge gaps, and areas where breakthroughs may be possible.
We will also ask you to suggest specific regional action points. The participants are asked to identify challenges and opportunities for the sustainable management of biological marine resources in different regions of the world, towards an increased supply of food and other resources and services from the oceans.
The main scientific areas to be addressed will be: ecosystem dynamics, technology for observation of marine ecosystems, pollution (including marine litter), fish stocks, aquaculture, sustainable harvesting, and the monitoring, control and surveillance of fisheries. The findings and conclusions of the conference will feed into the work of the High- level Panel and G7 countries.
IMR will produce a report of the contributions and recommendations of the conference participants, focusing on the challenges and opportunities, and highlighting common goals, regional solutions, and best practices to achieving them. Your travel expenses (economy class flights, hotel and per diem) can be refunded by IMR. We look forward to meeting you in Bergen in November.
Kind regards,
Vidar Helgesen
Special Representative to the High-level Panel
Prof. Sissel Rogne
Director, Institute of Marine Research