Research and Development

The ocean covers 71% of the Earth’s surface.

We all rely on and share the ocean’s vast resources. Inherited jointly and freely, the ocean, coasts, and marine ecosystems are held in trust for future generations.

At The Ocean Foundation, we devote our time to supporting and enhancing the diverse and growing needs of the marine conservation community. By doing so, we can effectively respond to the urgent issues threatening our ocean and capitalize on key conservation solutions in cost-effective, thoughtful ways.

Our Research and Development for the 71% allows us to provide such valuable support services and capacity building, and to otherwise meet the needs of those who depend on the coasts and ocean for their livelihoods, subsistence, and recreation. We use the concept of working for the 71% to take advantage of immediate conservation opportunities and work on longer-term solutions.

Research and Development: Ocean waves crashing on shore

Research and Development: Scuba diver above water

Through our Research and Development for the 71% efforts, we amplify our investments to maximize the health of our coasts, ocean, and the communities that support them.

We provide research-backed information to our community of ocean stakeholders, so they can identify best-in-class solutions for the primary threats to the ocean. We also integrate innovative science and technology with socio-economic, legal, and political expertise – to improve ocean governance and conservation around the world.

At every opportunity, we strive to communicate the results of our R&D work to promote collaboration and information sharing across key ocean sectors and communities, to continue pushing great ideas and avoid reinventing the wheel.

Our Research and Development for the 71% has helped the ocean thrive by focusing on three key areas to help find, fund, and shape ocean programs and local, national, and international policy:

Research and Development: person in the ocean wading in the sunset

INFORMATION GATHERING AND SHARING

We work with the ocean community to identify primary ocean threats and analyze best-in-class solutions through a global information-exchange network. We help shape ocean conversation through active and open sharing of best practices, findings and initiatives.

Research and Development: Toddler with floaties on splashing in the water

CAPACITY BUILDING

We increase the capacity of marine conservation organizations, and provide expert guidance to funders and foundations focusing on marine conservation.

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Scuba diver swimming next to a coral reef

FOSTERING COLLABORATION

We facilitate and promote cross-communication across ocean stakeholder communities to improve global ocean governance and conservation practices.

OUR RESEARCH HUB

Research Sustainable Blue Economy

Blue Economy

While the concept of the Blue Economy continues to change and adapt, economic development in the ocean and coastal communities can be designed to serve as a basis for sustainable development around the world.