The future of polar oceans: a collective

Date: 11 June 2025 – 15:00 to 15:45

Location: Pavillon de la Cryosphère (Green Zone)
Register herei : https://we-are-the-ocean.com/

Organized by: The Polar Initiative – Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco, Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR), International Arctic Science Committee (IASC)

The Polar Regions may feel far away, but their future is tied to ours. 

Join us at this UNOC3 side event, where we will raise awareness on the crucial role the Arctic and Southern Oceans play in the global climate crisis, emphasize key science and policy gaps, and call for integrated action informed by both scientific and Indigenous knowledge systems.

The session will highlight the profound interconnectedness between the Oceans and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), whose very existence is threatened by rising sea levels driven by melting ice caps. We will discuss our responsibility and explore collaborative actions needed to safeguard these pristine environments and vulnerable communities. It will be an opportunity to share current scientific insights, personal stories, and reflect collectively on the actions needed to safeguard these critical ecosystems.

Acknowledging the support from the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and the Polar Initiative for the many projects and organizations highlighted in this session, join us to understand this critical nexus and contribute to a sustainable future for all.

Programme Highlights

Moderator : Renuka Badhe

Opening Keynotes :
- Michael Meredith, British Antarctic Survey (recorded video)
- Rosa-O-Sarona Latu, Sustainable Ocean Alliance from Samoa

Panel discussion and Q&A :
- Sian Henley, Southern Ocean Observing System (SOOS)
- Marta Ferretti, SMILO
- Chris Bowler, Tara Ocean Foundation

Closing remarks :
- Salomé Mormentyn, Polar Initiative Manager, Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation