New IOC Strategy sets direction for sustainable ocean planning to 2030

The IOC of UNESCO has published its Strategy for Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management 2025–2030, introducing a whole‑of‑government and whole‑of‑society framework to strengthen integrated, science‑driven ocean governance. The Strategy outlines how nations can align ocean policies, data and management tools with biodiversity protection, climate action and sustainable economic development, noting that SOPM provides an actionable roadmap and integrated framework that unifies all ocean‑related policies, governance, tools and mechanisms. It also highlights nine core attributes of sustainable ocean plans and the support IOC offers to Member States through science‑based guidance, capacity development and improved access to ocean data.