The ocean is our common good. Most people in Norway live by the sea – and use it for work, for food or for leisure. We know that our ocean’s resources must be transferred – well maintained – to the next generation.

Fish stocks know no borders; neither does pollution. So, in addition to climate and global health, the ocean is the most obvious example of a global public good that can only be sustainably managed through multilateral cooperation.

The ocean economy is a powerful driver of global growth. It creates jobs and renewable energy, and ensures food security for millions worldwide. The ocean economy is actually expanding faster than the global economy. Since 1995, the added value from ocean economic activities doubled already this year – a milestone originally predicted no earlier than 2030.

Yet the ocean is under more threat than ever, from overfishing, marine pollution, ocean warming, acidification and other challenges. On top of that, we know that climate change remains the biggest threat to ocean economic activities and continued growth.

Norway, with the world’s second longest coastline and a deep maritime and marine heritage, is intimately connected to the ocean. Since 2002, we have regularly developed ‘Integrated Ocean Management Plans for the Norwegian Sea Areas’. They provide a framework for creating value through the sustainable use of marine resources and ecosystem services. At the same time, these plans aim at preserving the ecosystems’ structure, functioning, productivity and diversity. Overall, this represents an integrated, science-based approach to ocean management.

To achieve the equivalent at the global level – which I believe is possible – we need to take ocean matters into multilateral processes. We need to use various channels and arenas, including the G20, to mobilise political support, will and action.

Through my leadership of the International Ocean Panel, together with the president of Palau, a ‘coalition of the willing’ has taken the lead. We have developed a plan for how to achieve sustainable ocean management and build sustainable ocean economies globally.

This year’s successful UN Ocean conference in Nice, France, had as its overall theme ‘Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean’. Now, sustainable ocean management is clearly anchored in the United Nations. This is important for the whole sustainable development agenda, but also for global security.

The G20 discusses key global challenges including climate, food security, energy transition and energy security. Now, my message is this: The ocean provides solutions to these challenges as well as great opportunities. Two examples: Aquatic food represents the largest potential for more food production, and offshore wind is critical for energy security. Despite this, ocean issues have not figured prominently on the G20 agenda. Norway, as a G20 guest country, made efforts to change that during Brazil’s presidency and we have continued to do so this year.

The G20 should promote implementation of the conclusions from the Nice conference, including quick ratification by G20 members of the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction. We should continue to work together for an ambitious global agreement against plastic pollution. Plastic pollution is increasing, and the ongoing negotiation process must result in an effective treaty.

In line with the recommendations of the Ocean Panel, Norway is also contributing to programmes assisting developing countries to improve their ocean management. We support research programs, better fisheries management, marine litter reduction and use of the International Maritime Organization to reduce emissions from shipping. These are examples of what countries can do to make ocean management more sustainable.

Now that the G20 is entering a new phase, and we discuss its role and focus moving forward, I hope to see ocean issues moving higher up its agenda. Through sustainable ocean economy and sustainable ocean management, the ocean can be our ally in meeting some of the largest global challenges, such as food security, more renewable energy, emission reductions and climate adaptation. Without a healthy ocean, we will not be able to reach the Sustainable Development Goals in 2030.

I was very pleased that G20 leaders agreed to our emphasis on the importance of oceans in Rio de Janeiro last year, and I hope to see more of the same message in the declaration this year. With the UN ocean conference in Nice, we have a solid basis for action. Now it is up to all ocean nations to follow through. G20 members can play a key role in promoting implementation. I look forward to continuing to work closely with the G20 on these urgent ocean issues in the years to come.

 

More information on the publication: