Global commitments to Ocean sustainability have been repeatedly reinforced through international agreements and scientific consensus. However, despite the clear understanding of the Ocean’s critical role in sustaining life and supporting economies, the gap between aspirations and actual progress continues to widen. Governments, industries, civil society, and institutions consistently call for urgent action, yet the pace of meaningful progress remains slow and insufficient.

This seminar explored the underlying reasons for this disconnect, examining the systemic barriers that hinder effective implementation of Ocean goals. Key issues include political inertia, fragmented governance, and the failure to translate scientific knowledge into concrete actions. The critical importance of shifting from rhetoric to action, was also discussed, emphasising the need for collaborative, inclusive governance frameworks that can lead to real, sustainable change, and the important role that education and literacy can play in ushering in that change.

As our understanding of the Ocean and Ocean Governance continuously evolves, the IOI remains committed to provide learning opportunities where cutting-edge issues can be addressed, further enhancing the careers and professional development of its Alumni. Last year through our IOI Alumni CPD webinar series, we addressed the critical issue of deep seabed mining, recognising its growing importance in global resource management and environmental policy. However, the rapid evolution of the geopolitical landscape and technological advancements in this field merit a critical examination to explore drivers and environmental impacts and stressors of Deep Seabed Mining activities.

As global demand for metals surges, driven by the transition to green energy and technological advancements, deep seabed mining has become a focal point of geopolitical interest. Rich in valuable resources such as sulphide clusters, cobalt-rich crusts, and polymetallic nodules, the deep sea is attracting attention from an increasing number of nations and private enterprises. This webinar explored the evolving geopolitical landscape of deep seabed mining, where national concerns, international regulations, and environmental stewardship intersect in complex and often contentious ways.

The three distinguished speakers each brought a unique perspective on the complex issue of deep seabed mining. Bobbi-Jo Dobush, (Ocean Advocate and Deep Seabed Mining Expert, Salt Horizon) kicked things off by introducing the topic and critically examining the feasibility—or lack thereof—of deep seabed mining, considering both its environmental and economic implications. Andras Szorenyi, (Senior Policy Advisor at Global Cities Hub), then provided a broader geopolitical analysis, exploring the global trends and power dynamics shaping the future of deep seabed mining. Finally, Rosalyn Kamp, an interdisciplinary researcher and Hub Leader at SOA Malta, emphasized the importance of NGO and youth representation in this geopolitical sphere, highlighting the need for systemic change in how decisions around deep seabed mining are made.

IOI Alumni gained a comprehensive understanding of the geopolitical dynamics surrounding deep seabed mining and how these influence global resource management. By exploring the evolving role of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) in establishing mining regulations, attendees gained insights into the complex balance between state sovereignty, international cooperation, and environmental protection. The discussions also shed light on the implications of shifting geopolitical alliances and the increasing influence of private companies in this sphere.

There is an urgent consensus among researchers and global communities that climate change presents increasingly severe consequences if left unaddressed. Central to this discourse is the Ocean's pivotal role in absorbing a significant portion of anthropogenic CO2 emissions from the atmosphere. However, questions arise regarding the Ocean's enduring capacity and the ramifications of its evolving role amidst Earth's changing climate.

This IOI Alumni Continuous Professional Development webinar delved into the multifaceted relationship between the Ocean and climate mitigation.  Drawing upon insights from the World Ocean Review 8: The Ocean – A Climate Champion? How to Boost Marine Carbon Dioxide Uptake (WOR8), it provided a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue between IOI Alumni and the following three experts who contributed to drafting WOR8:

• Prof Andreas Oschlies (Head of the Biogeochemical Modelling Research Unit at the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research in Kiel)  who introduced the current approaches to Carbon Dioxide Removal and the role the Ocean could play;
• Dr Christine Merk (Deputy Director of the Global Commons and Climate Policy Research Centre at Kiel Institute for the World Economy) who analysed Public perceptions of marine Carbon Dioxide Removal approaches; 
• Dr Lukas Tank (Postdoctoral Researcher in the Climate Ethics, Sustainability and Global Justice research group, University of Kiel) who highlighted the Procedural Justice aspects of Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal. 

Lastly, the interactive Q&A session that followed in the second part of the webinar fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas, allowing participants to engage directly with the experts, share valuable insights, and discuss practical applications for their fields. This dynamic interaction helped explore actionable solutions to the complex challenges of enhancing the ocean's role in carbon sequestration.

Building on the webinar series launched in 2023, the first webinar in 2024 served  as a platform to address the complex interaction  between climate change and Ocean sustainability in policymaking. Held in the aftermath of COP28, the event aimed to shed light on the pressing governance challenges concerning these crucial environmental domains. 

The webinar set out to articulate the urgency of understanding and harmonising climate and Ocean policies to enhance the resilience and health of the Earth's ecosphere. The global community's imperative to navigate this "blue horizon" was emphasised, highlighting the critical symbiotic relationship between climate and Ocean governance. 

Throughout the session, distinguished experts and IOI Alumni shared invaluable insights, delving into key themes crucial for understanding the implications of COP28 on Ocean-related matters. Prof Simone Borg, Ambassador for Climate Action, Malta, elucidated the existing Ocean governance frameworks, scrutinising their adequacy in light of evolving climate agreements. Dr Ute Jacob, Co-lead at the Transfer Office for Marine Biodiversity Change at HIFMB (Germany), examined adaptation and mitigation strategies, emphasising the pivotal role of international cooperation in addressing biodiversity loss and climate change impacts on oceanic and coastal ecosystems. Furthermore, Dr Mark Dickey-Collas, an independent applied Marine Scientist, elucidated strategies for maintaining resilient fisheries amidst the challenges posed by climate change. 

The interactive Q&A session fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers, share insights, and discuss practical implications for their respective fields, facilitating exploration of actionable solutions to the complex challenges at hand. The webinar provided participants with an understanding of the intricate interplay between climate and ocean policymaking, underscoring the importance of collaborative action and informed decision-making in tackling the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change and long-term Ocean sustainability.