Implementing UN SDG 14.3 & Achieving carbon reductions through UNFCCC
In 2021, it is imperative that governments and civil society continue to advance the suite of science and policy actions that will be needed to support food security and sovereignty, increase resilience of marine ecosystems and build a sustainable ocean economy in the face of future change.
This is reflected in the UN Sustainable Development Goal Agenda and target SDG 14.3, to “Minimize and address the impacts of ocean acidification.” As the science, research and observed impacts of ocean acidification continue to grow, there is a continued need for increased knowledge exchange and expertise on the substance and process for developing local, regional and national responses in the face of cumulative ocean change.
On June 8, 2021 the OA Alliance and The Ocean Foundation hosted an event focused on implementing UN SDG 14.3, “Protecting Communities and Livelihoods from the Threat of a Changing Ocean.”
Because anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions are the direct and main cause of ocean acidification, the achievement of SDG14.3 is inextricably linked the UNFCCC process and meeting the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. The most effective means for humanity to implement SDG14.3 is to stimulate much greater ambition and commitment to curtail anthropogenic GHG emissions at the UNFCCC’s COP26 in Glasgow.
Ocean acidification also requires increased investments from all stakeholders in both the SDG and UNFCCC processes to improve the measure of its global progression and develop coastal information that support national response.
Implementing UN SDG 14.3
Protecting Communities and Livelihoods from the Threat of a Changing Ocean
Co-Hosted by OA Alliance and The Ocean Foundation
Ocean Acidification Poetry: Samantha Jones
Opening Remarks: United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean Ambassador Peter Thomson
(1) Understanding and Addressing Ocean Acidification in Latin America, Dra. Carla F. Berghoff, Latin American Ocean Acidification Observing Network Co-Chair
(2) Ocean Acidification Leadership in Argentina, Minister Filmus, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship
(3) Climate and Ocean Change, Tribal Government Treaty Rights, and Food Sovereignty, Councilman Chad Bowechop, Makah Tribal Council
(4) New Zealand Leadership on Ocean Acidification Across the Commonwealth, Dr. Christina McGraw, University of Otago and NZ OA Community
(5) Climate Change in the Mediterranean and Actions to Understand and Address Ocean Acidification, Dr. Abed El Rahman Hassoun, OA- Med HUB Coordinator
Closing Remarks: Dr. Peter Swarzenski, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) OA International Coordination Centre