Sustainable Ocean Research Articles

Toward Extending the Life of a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Using Sheltering From Upstream Wave Energy Converters

Abstract Offshore renewable energy, derived from wind and waves, is increasingly being considered in many world regions. Co-location of offshore wind turbine and wave energy converter arrays allows the shared use of space and offers beneficial interaction, leading to efficient utilization of marine resources and more sustainable ocean energy solutions. By extracting energy from waves, wave energy converters can reduce hydrodynamic loads on downstream floating offshore wind turbines through sheltering effects, enhancing the structural reliability of the floating offshore wind turbine and extending its service life. To quantify such extension in service life, a comprehensive reliability analysis framework is proposed that incorporates metocean data analysis, fatigue damage assessment, and an integrated reliability-based fatigue life estimation. We employ power take-off matrices of alternative wave energy devices to approximate absorbed wave power in encountered sea states. A metocean data analysis establishes representative sea states for the incident waves and lee waves estimated by subtracting absorbed wave power from the incident power. The open-source time-domain simulation tool, openfast, is employed to compute loads on a downstream floating offshore wind turbine, for sea states of interest. Using selected output stress response time series, fatigue damage is assessed; an extended service life due to effective sheltering for the floating offshore wind turbine is evaluated through the proposed fatigue reliability analysis. Considering three alternatives, our analysis indicates that a 14–25% extension in service life can be achieved using wave energy devices that offer the benefits of sheltering.

A systematic scoping review of social sciences and humanities to contribute to ecosystem-based management

Abstract Ecosystem-based management is key to achieving sustainable ocean use. To realize this potential, marine ecosystem-based management requires greater involvement of the social sciences and humanities, especially to adopt a more holistic approach and incorporate human–nature interactions. An understanding of the state of marine social science and humanities research and its potential to provide advice for management can inform and further its use. To contribute to a future where marine ecosystem-based management fully utilizes marine social science and humanities research, this analysis systematically scoped and reviewed 176 peer-reviewed social science and humanities papers about marine systems in Atlantic Canada published between 2000 and 2021. The analysis used ecological, economic, social/cultural, and governance objectives defined in an ecosystem-based management framework to structure the analysis. The analysis asked three questions: (i) What is the scope of the social science and humanities literature about aquatic systems in Atlantic Canada? (ii) How does that literature relate to objectives in ecosystem-based management? (iii) To what extent is that literature framed for practical integration of advice into decision making? Results indicate a comprehensive body of research, with potential to inform ecosystem-based management but with limited framing for practical integration. This result highlights missed opportunities for the research to be ready for use in ecosystem-based management. The research offers a framework, method, and strategies to understand and improve the scope and practical use of social science and humanities to inform marine ecosystem-based management in Atlantic Canada and globally.

Blue Economy and Ocean Sustainability: A Bibliometric Review of Global Research

The blue economy has emerged as a crucial framework for balancing economic development and marine sustainability. This study employs a bibliometric analysis using data from Scopus and VOSviewer to examine global research trends in the blue economy and ocean sustainability. The findings reveal a rapid increase in scholarly interest, particularly in governance, marine policy, environmental economics, and climate change adaptation. Key contributing countries include the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, while financial instruments such as blue bonds and sustainable investment funds are gaining prominence as emerging research themes. The study also highlights a shift towards equity and inclusivity in blue economy discussions, addressing socio-economic challenges in marine industries. Despite significant advancements, knowledge gaps persist regarding the effectiveness of governance frameworks, accessibility of financial mechanisms, and social equity. This study contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive analysis of research trajectories, identifying future research directions, and emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches in achieving a sustainable and inclusive blue economy.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Sustainable Ocean Waste Tracking and Management: A Bibliometric Analysis

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in monitoring and managing ocean waste reveals considerable promise for improving sustainable strategies to combat marine pollution. This study performs a bibliometric analysis to examine research trends, knowledge frameworks, and future directions in AI-driven sustainable ocean waste management. This study delineates key research themes, prominent journals, influential authors, and leading nations contributing to the field by analysing scientific publications from major databases. Research from citation networks, keyword analysis, and co-authorship patterns highlights significant topics such as AI algorithms for waste detection, machine learning models for predictive mapping of pollution hotspots, and the application of autonomous drones and underwater robots in real-time waste management. The findings indicate a growing global focus on utilising AI to enhance environmental monitoring, optimise waste reduction methods, and support policy development for sustainable marine ecosystems. This bibliometric study provides a comprehensive analysis of the current knowledge landscape, identifies research gaps, and underscores the importance of AI as a crucial enabler for sustainable ocean waste management, offering vital insights for researchers, industry leaders, and environmental policymakers dedicated to preserving ocean health.

Placing knowledge equity at the heart of the UN Ocean Decade: an Early Career Researcher perspective

The UN Ocean Decade provides a framework for stakeholders and rights-holders to come together to develop transformative ocean solutions for sustainable development. We are a group of Early Career Researchers (ECR) from diverse backgrounds with a shared commitment to working toward the Ocean Decade outcomes. Our article offers an ECR perspective on the fundamental importance of knowledge equity for achieving the Ocean Decade's vision of “the science we need for the ocean we want.” Knowledge equity is imperative for confronting the “business as usual” approach to ocean sustainability as it requires us to confront and dismantle extractive practices of knowledge production. We reflect on how the dominance of western science in research and policy and the systematic marginalization of diverse knowledge systems has led to inequitable outcomes for ocean-dependent people. Using real-world examples, we demonstrate the progress we can make toward ocean sustainability when we place knowledge equity at the heart of our work. We conclude with a call to action to ensure that knowledge equity is embedded as both a principle and a practice within the Ocean Decade framework. We invite all ocean professionals to join us in: (1) adopting an intentional practice of reflexivity in our work; (2) confronting colonial ways of thinking, knowing, and doing; and (3) dismantling knowledge hierarchies that permeate ocean science and practice. By implementing these actions, we can create meaningful and inclusive spaces for collaboration and become a more respectful and effective global ocean community.

Teaching ocean literacy in science education: a systematic review

Ocean literacy (OL) provides individuals with an understanding of marine ecosystems, environmental challenges, and the importance of marine conservation. Schools serve as pivotal environments where students can acquire learning experiences, mainly through science education related to the marine environment. This systematic literature review (SLR) aims to increase knowledge about research trends in OL and OL teaching in science education at all levels of education across various regions. A systematic search was conducted using the Scopus database between 2012 and 2022. The search yielded 43 out of 357 articles using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) model. OL principles have been incorporated into educational curricula in many countries. Teaching methods, such as project-based, problem-based, and inquiry-based learning (IBL) provide students to acquired scientific knowledge related to marine and coastal biodiversity, conservation, and ocean sustainability. Learning technologies, including game-based learning (GBL) and virtual reality, have been shown to provide interactive learning experiences. Assessment instruments are needed to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and behavior toward the ocean. Teaching OL concepts and principles through curriculum integration, innovative methods, technology-based media, and appropriate assessment instruments at all levels of education supports global sustainability efforts and prepares individuals to protect and conserve the oceans sustainably.

Looking back in awe: spectacular advances in the marine biodiversity toolbox to support sustainable oceans

Abstract My 40-year career has spanned a rapid acceleration in interest and technical capacity to assess and understand marine biodiversity, and its role in Earth’s life support system. These advanced technologies, including modeling and statistical tools, observational and mapping capabilities, in situ experiments and measurements, genetics, lipid and stable isotope markers, and communication and collaboration tools, all offer new opportunities for major scientific advancement to a degree not previously available. These tools can enhance marine conservation efforts toward greater ecological and environmental sustainability. Drawing from three interlinked themes of biodiversity drivers, ecosystem functioning, and population connectivity, I summarize changes in my own thinking on ocean science, the top 10 lessons learned along the way, and the potential applications of new technologies to societal challenges.

Strengthening the seascape of global environmental assessments to support ocean sustainability

Ambitious evidence-based policies are urgently needed to redirect mankind’s trajectory towards ocean sustainability. While global environmental assessments (GEAs) synthesizing ocean knowledge are multiplying, we must ensure that their processes and outputs are conducive to social legitimacy, scientific credibility, and meet decision-makers’ needs. Here, we identify best practices for GEAs to achieve legitimacy, credibility, and salience and develop a framework to evaluate their levels of implementation. We apply this framework to review the processes and outputs of 12 influential reports at the ocean science-policy interface. Credibility best practices were well implemented in GEAs but significant opportunities remain to strengthen legitimacy and salience best practices, notably by increasing stakeholder engagement, diversifying knowledge systems represented, and featuring actionable knowledge for decision-makers. We formulate four recommendations to strengthen the GEA seascape: elevating co-production practices, bridging scales through multi-level approaches, increasing transparency in knowledge choices and gaps, and coordinating assessment processes.

Harnessing diversity for sustainable ocean futures

Harnessing diversity for sustainable ocean futures

Publishing datasets, using artificial intelligence to help with metadata, can enhance ocean sustainability research and management

Publishing datasets, using artificial intelligence to help with metadata, can enhance ocean sustainability research and management

Special issue on “ICT for blue economy and ocean sustainability”

Special issue on “ICT for blue economy and ocean sustainability”

Linking the blue economy to Women's empowerment to create avenues for the realization of ocean sustainability targets in the global south

Linking the blue economy to Women's empowerment to create avenues for the realization of ocean sustainability targets in the global south

The Nexus Between Blue Economy and Sustainable Development: A Systematic Literature Review and Mapping Study

This study investigates the relationship between the blue economy and sustainable development through a mapping study and systematic literature review (SLR) adhering to the PRISMA framework. An examination of 57 Scopus-indexed journal papers indicates a robust correlation between the blue economy and sustainability, highlighting significant developing topics such as innovation, the doughnut economy, environmental legislation, regenerative systems, digitization, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Prominent themes encompass the blue economy, sustainability, ocean economy, innovation, small-scale fisheries, blue equity, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and fisheries. In contrast, underexamined yet promising subjects include economic growth, ocean sustainability, alternative livelihoods, deep-sea mining, aquaculture, tourism, and environmental law. The intersection of Blue Economy and Sustainable Development emphasizes Strategic Management and Marine and Coastal Tourism as the principal focus (21.05%), succeeded by Ocean Governance and Marine Spatial Planning, Sustainable Aquaculture, Marine Food Production and Blue Energy Innovation, and Climate Change, Risk and Conservation (17.54%). Fisher Support (12.28%) prioritizes fisher welfare, whilst Marine Cultural Heritage and Social Dimensions (10.53%) underscore social and cultural significance. This study delineates research trends, analyzes deficiencies, and provides policymakers, scholars, and practitioners insights to promote sustainable marine-based economic development. This study enhances the comprehension of the relationship between the Blue Economy and Sustainable Development by delineating research trends, pinpointing knowledge deficiencies, and emphasizing critical topic areas like strategic management, marine governance, sustainable aquaculture, and assistance for fishers. The results highlight the interdisciplinary aspect of this connection, especially in incorporating innovation, digitalization, and doughnut economy ideas into marine economic policies. The study's implications are relevant to academia, politicians, and practitioners, offering a basis for future research on emergent topics such as deep-sea mining, blue growth, and climate risk reduction. Enhancing marine spatial planning, fisher welfare, and socio-cultural aspects can promote inclusive and sustainable marine development, assuring ecological resilience and advancing economic fairness for coastal communities.

Sustainability, well-being and health: towards a cultural metric approach in ocean accounting

ABSTRACT The sea embodies meaning, healing, and identity, expressed through interactions and customs closely intertwined with cultural heritage. As noted, there are three perspectives through which health is related to heritage. However, the complexity of cultural ocean interactions is absent in current ocean accounts frameworks. We posit that well-being is not linear but sensory, complex, and intricate. By considering a cultural metric in an ocean accounts framework, we can see that there is a potential to revalorise intangible cultural knowledge for ocean sustainability. Data was collected along the coast from Knysna to Port Alfred. The research found participants re-evaluating their watery existence from livelihoods, culturally inscribed behaviours and healing. We recommend considering these viewpoints and cultural beliefs of the sea as crucial for the blue economy agenda, ocean accounting and management. Moving away from one-size-fits-all approaches for human-nature relationships, a cultural metric approach considers sustainability for overall well-being.

Towards more sustainable oceans: A review of the pressing challenges posed by marine plastic litter.

Marine littering is a global challenge and a significant threat to a sustainable planet, requiring comprehensive and effective mechanisms to address it in a comprehensive manner. This study reports on a bibliometric analysis that has identified the extent to which the topic has been explored in the international literature, by focusing on geographical scope, the emphasis on (micro)plastic litter and on policy measures. Additionally, as a complement to the assessment of the recent literature on marine plastic litter, this study reviews some case studies, identifying some trends on how to cope with this problem. The findings underscore the imperative for heightened research efforts in the context of marine littering. The literature reveals that unsustainable practices, the absence of robust policies and inadequate enforcement substantially contribute to the prevalence of marine plastic litter. Consequently, urgent action is essential, demanding the implementation of effective policies and frameworks. Encouraging nations to transition towards marine sustainability, particularly in terms of prevention and environmental awareness, is of paramount importance. To pave the way for a cleaner ocean for future generations, this study not only highlights the root causes but also offers suggested solutions. These solutions serve as valuable insights for researchers, innovators and policymakers worldwide, charting a course towards a more sustainable and litter-free marine environment.

Integrating Asafo Companies for Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Heritage Management in Ghana

African intangible cultural heritage (ICH) is a rich resource for identity, community and sociality. Heritage institutions such as the Asafocompanies in Ghana, are traditional warrior groups that historically defended the state. Today, they are critical to coastal heritage management processes. This article reveals their contribution and argues that, while Asafo groups desire greater inclusion in heritage management, the national government of Ghana seeks to decentralize ocean governance processes. But, Asafo companies are complex groupings in which identity and “place,” matter. The article concludes that for a decolonial and sustainable ocean heritage management, the national government of Ghana needs to engage with Asafo companies to better understand them. In doing, so, the government will be better placed to support both a decolonial heritage conservation and ocean sustainability.

Ocean equity: from assessment to action to improve social equity in ocean governance

Inequity is ubiquitous in the ocean, and social equity receives insufficient attention in ocean governance and management efforts. Thus, we assert that proponents of sustainability must center social equity in future ocean governance, to address past social and environmental injustices, to align with international law and conservation policy, and to realize objectives of sustainability. This obligation applies across all marine policy realms, including marine conservation, fisheries management, climate adaptation and the ocean economy, in all socio-political contexts and at different geographical scales. Indeed, many governmental, non-governmental, and philanthropic organizations are striving to advance social equity across their ocean sustainability focused agendas, policies, programs, initiatives, and portfolios. To date, however, there has been limited attention to how to meaningfully assess status and monitor progress on social equity in ocean governance (aka “ocean equity”) across different marine policy realms. Here, we contribute to ongoing efforts to advance ocean equity through providing guidance on five steps to develop bespoke, fit to purpose and contextually appropriate assessment and monitoring frameworks and approaches to measure status of and track changes in ocean equity. These steps include: 1) Clearly articulating the overarching purpose and aim; 2) Convening a participatory group and process to co-design the assessment framework; 3) Identifying important objectives, aspects and attributes of social equity to assess; 4) Selecting and developing indicators, methods, and measures; and 5) Collecting, analyzing and evaluating data. Then, we discuss four subsequent steps to take into account to ensure that assessments lead to adaptations or transformations to improve ocean equity. These steps include: 1) Communicating results to reach key audiences, to enable learning and inform decision-making; 2) Deliberating on actions and selecting interventions to improve ocean equity; 3) Ensuring actions to improve ocean equity are implemented; and, 4) Committing to continual cycles of monitoring, evaluation, learning and adapting at regular intervals. Following these steps could contribute to a change in how oceans are governed. The diligent pursuit of ocean equity will help to ensure that the course towards a sustainable ocean is more representative, inclusive and just.

Advancing ocean sustainability through better science integration: perspectives of Early Career Ocean Professionals

As the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) approaches halfway, inclusive input on progress and innovative approaches to achieving ocean sustainability is timely and necessary. Input from the leaders of tomorrow—today's Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs)—brings important generational perspectives on delivering marine science that can inform and contribute to achieving future ocean sustainability. ECOP perspectives may also offer novel insights on informing solutions to ocean-related challenges. Here, we articulate ECOP perspectives on priority recommendations for addressing current gaps and opportunities in ocean science in the context of the “Ocean Decade”. These recommendations include: (1) a culture shift toward more active and transparent data sharing; (2) valuing and connecting different knowledge systems; and (3) achieving effective knowledge-sharing across disciplines and jurisdictions. We outline how all actors in ocean research, across different disciplines and institutions, can implement these changes, and where relevant, demonstrate unique roles ECOPs can play in this process. We propose that the implementation of these recommendations, by all actors in ocean science, along with greater inclusion and transfer of diverse knowledge, will support efforts to achieve the goals of the Ocean Decade, and ensure ocean sustainability for generations to come.

Global priorities for ocean sustainability from Early Career Ocean Professionals

Abstract Intergenerational diversity is central to achieving long-term ocean sustainability. As such, one of the main goals and challenges in the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) is fostering engagement and leadership across career stages and from diverse sectors. To understand the knowledge and professional development needs of the next generation, we surveyed the perspectives of 1344 Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs) across 108 countries and territories. We assess the survey results, reflect on what has been done to address these needs halfway through the Ocean Decade, and suggest areas to further progress. We found that climate change and its social and ecological impacts are the unifying topical priority for ECOPs globally. ECOPs called for support and access to professional development. Despite progress in many initiatives, enhanced opportunities for collaboration across disciplines and sectors, mentorship and professional development, knowledge and resource-sharing across regions, inclusion in decision-making and policy processes, and support for socially impactful and applied research require further attention. In addition, the survey responses indicated that access to funding, infrastructure, and ocean science tools was not equitably distributed globally, with the need to prioritize the ECOPs in the Global South and island nations and states. The results from this global survey serve as a foundational step to reflect upon and continue to co-design and deliver a collective vision for ocean sustainability involving the next generation of ocean leaders throughout the second half of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development and beyond.

Atlantic arc Lander Monitoring (ALaMo): An Emerging Network of Low-Cost Lander Arrays for Ocean Bottom Observations

The need to establish a sustained Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) has long been recognized by the international ocean science community. Established in 1991 and led by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (IOC-UNESCO), GOOS develops guidelines and coordinates regional alliances across the world’s ocean basins to evolve the system. The need to sustainably expand GOOS has recently gained urgency as expressed in the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) Challenge 7: Ensure a sustainable ocean observing system across all ocean basins that delivers accessible, timely, and actionable data and information to all users.