World Ocean Council

WOC

The ocean is an interconnected global ecosystem supporting a wide range of uses.

Lobbying Activity

Response to The European Oceans Pact

17 Feb 2025

The World Ocean Council (WOC) appreciates the efforts of the European Oceans Pact to promote comprehensive ocean governance and a sustainable blue economy. We believe that incorporating a broad range of maritime industry stakeholders into the development and implementation of ocean policies is crucial. WOC emphasizes 'Corporate Ocean Responsibility,' advocating for a consistent platform that gives all maritime sectors a voice, not just select companies on an ad-hoc basis. This approach not only enriches policy through diverse perspectives but also ensures more robust and inclusive governance. WOC's areas of focussuch as Policy and Planning, Blue Economy Global Innovation Network, Global Blue Finance, Climate and Marine Biodiversity, Ports, Cities and Resilience, and Smart Ocean - Smart Industriesoffer valuable insights and frameworks that could enhance the objectives of the Pact. By considering these program areas, the Pact could leverage WOCs expertise and networks to foster innovation, investment, and sustainability in ocean-related activities. Moreover, the emphasis on improving marine biodiversity protection and promoting resilience in coastal areas under the Pact could advance WOC's efforts in climate resilience and biodiversity conservation, while also enhancing sustainable practices in port cities and coastal infrastructures through the Ports, Cities, and Resilience program. The consolidation of marine knowledge frameworks proposed in the Pact should complement WOC's Smart Oceans - Smart Industries program, which leverages voluntary data collection from industry for better ocean governance. While WOC is keen to support the European Oceans Pact, we suggest a collaborative approach where the expertise and experiences of various maritime industries are actively sought and integrated. This will help ensure that the Pact not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also resonates with those who are one of the most affected groups by its policiesthe ocean business community.
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Meeting with Andras Inotai (Cabinet of Vice-President Karmenu Vella)

19 Jan 2018 · blue economy financing principles, investments in the blue economy

Meeting with Joao Aguiar Machado (Director-General Maritime Affairs and Fisheries)

31 Jan 2017 · Exchange of views on Oceans policy and ways to strengthen cooperation

Meeting with Andras Inotai (Cabinet of Vice-President Karmenu Vella)

28 Sept 2016 · Ocean Governance, Blue Growth