Ocean Networks Canada (ONC), a University of Victoria initiative and leader in ocean monitoring and data delivery, has been officially recognized as a Decade Implementing Partner of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO.
As an implementing partner, ONC will be participating in the 2025 UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) June 9-13, in Nice, France, to strengthen international collaboration efforts around sustainable ocean conservation.
The UN Ocean Decade provides a framework of 10 challenges that enable scientists and partners to deliver solutions towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
As one of Canada's major research facilities, ONC's new role as a decade implementing partner over the next three years recognizes its contribution to advancing global ocean observing to support a healthier, more sustainable and equitable future for our planet.
"ONC receiving this status as an implementing partner for the UN Ocean Decade is a significant milestone and reflects our commitment to open data, interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative technologies that contribute to ocean sustainability and resilience, both in Canada and globally," says Kate Moran, ONC president and CEO.
Pieter Romer, ONC indigenous community liaison, Daniela Loock, ONC director of engagement and knowledge mobilization, and Maia Hoeberechts, ONC director of learning and community engagement attending the 2025 One Ocean Science Congress in Nice, France. Credit: Ocean Networks Canada
The ONC delegates participating in the 2025 UN Ocean Conference in Nice include Daniela Loock, director, engagement and knowledge mobilization, and Benoît Pirenne, corporate innovation and technology officer. Both are participating in respective panel discussions on strengthening policy frameworks and regional data sharing models.
ONC is also currently attending the One Ocean Science Congress in the runup to UNOC3. This event will provide decision makers and the public with insights into the ocean's health and future trajectory.
ONC's Peter Romer, Indigenous community liaison, and Maia Hoeberechts, associate director, learning and community engagement, are presenting on advancing Indigenous involvement in ocean monitoring through meaningful engagement and partnerships. The team is also highlighting ONC's involvement in OneDeepOcean, a UN Ocean Decade program to advance deep ocean monitoring, research and collaboration.
Learn more about the Decade Implementing Partner designation, and specific actions and areas of impact where ONC is contributing to the UN Ocean Decade goals.
