The UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030 offers an exceptional opportunity and a global framework to generate the knowledge, science and solutions needed to halt the increasing degradation of our

seas and ocean and to preserve their existential role for the future of humanity and our planet. The Ocean Decade will contribute to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the achievement of the targets of SDG14 ‘Life Below Water’, as well as numerous other SDGs that depend on ocean science and knowledge, whilst delivering substantive contributions to related global policy frameworks, including the Paris Agreement, the High Seas Treaty (BBNJ) and Global Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

With the Roadmap for Cooperation on the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030 DG Research and Innovation (DG RTD) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC) will structure and strengthen their cooperation on the Ocean Decade. The IOC and DG RTD will recognise the importance of their linked activities and mutually support each other’s activities, align programmes, and promote a closer partnership.