Strengthening collaboration between science and finance is key to fully unlocking the ocean’s potential.
But these two communities aren’t yet fully connected. As a result, there is a significant gap in understanding. Getting a wide-ranging group of stakeholders together is one of the first steps to moving forward.
That’s why Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences was eager to participate in Connecting Science to Capital for Ocean Finance and the Blue Economy, a roundtable discussion held during NYC Climate Week. It was co-hosted with Duke University’s Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability, Ocean 14 Capital, the World Ocean Council, and Okhtapus.
The event brought together more than two dozen leaders from across science, investment, philanthropy, nonprofits, law, and policy for a discussion about ocean finance. Having these various perspectives — quite literally — around the table led to an insightful conversation centered on collaborative problem-solving.
President and CEO Deborah Bronk, third from right, took part in the roundtable and led a presentation. Deb is joined here by other participants including John Bohorquez (third from the left), a visiting scientist affiliated with Bigelow Laboratory. They shared information about the National Ocean Economics Program (NOEP), which the institution recently took over.
There’s a lot of work ahead, but thanks to this convening, we can start to see how all parties can shape success. Thanks to the group of leaders who gathered for this discussion!
And be sure to check out NOEP, which provides accessible and broadly relevant economic and social information about ocean and coastal zones.
