UN Decade of Ocean Science
The UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021–2030 (the Ocean Decade) brings together ocean stakeholders worldwide to advance knowledge, ensure its practical use, and support solutions for sustainable ocean management.
Coordinated globally by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, the Decade strengthens the link between ocean science and the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Sweden’s contribution to the UN Decade
On behalf of the Swedish government, Formas hosts the Swedish National Committee for the Ocean Decade. The committee brings together representatives from agencies and organisations engaged in marine and coastal issues.
The committee supports Sweden’s implementation of the Decade by coordinating national efforts, disseminating knowledge and results and promoting and contributing to Swedish initiatives.
Its work is organised around four key focus areas:
- Ecosystem-based management
- Innovation and digitalisation
- Data and modelling
- Ocean literacy
Climate action and the protection of biodiversity are integrated across all focus areas.
Report on the implementation of the Ocean Decade in Sweden (Swedish) External link.
Get Involved: Endorsed Activities
Organisations, research groups, institutions, and companies can contribute to the Ocean Decade by applying to have their programmes, projects, or initiatives officially endorsed.
Hundreds of initiatives have already been endorsed globally, contributing to coordinated efforts, increased visibility, and progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals—particularly SDG 14: Life Below Water.
Receiving endorsement enhances visibility and serves as a recognised quality label.
Some Ocean Decade activities
Citizen Science and Ocean Literacy
Citizen science enables the public to actively contribute to research and improve ocean literacy. By engaging schools, professionals, and the wider public, these initiatives help build knowledge and awareness about the ocean and its challenges.
Ocean Literacy Surveys
The Swedish Institute for the Marine Environment has conducted several surveys to understand how people in Sweden relate to the ocean—examining knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of marine issues.
Events, Conferences, Workshops and Round table discussions
Organisations represented in the Swedish National Committee regularly organise seminars, conferences, workshops, and roundtable discussions, as well as activities linked to World Oceans Day and the Almedalen Week.
Swedish contributions to the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES)
Formas funds Swedish researchers participating in the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) to strengthen knowledge development and international networks.
Ocean Related Research Calls
Formas provides funding for research contributing to a better marine environment, primarily through the National Research Programme on Oceans and Water.
The Committee
Swedish National Decade Committee
- John Tumpane (Chair), Formas
- Lars Arneborg, SMHI
- Kajsa Tönnesson, Swedish Institute for the Marine Environment
- Mia Dahlström, Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management
- Karin Lexén, Swedish Society for Nature Conservation
- Linus Hammar Perry, Swedish Polar Research Secretariat
- Maria Wilenius, Swedish UNESCO Council
Contact at Formas:
