UNDP launches third cohort of four ocean innovators

The ocean provides a broad range of ecosystem services - such as food security, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation - yet two-thirds of the ocean is considered to have been negatively impacted by human activities.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) today launched its third cohort of four ocean innovators to demonstrate the compelling roles of marine spatial planning (MSP), marine protected areas (MPAs) and new environmentally and socially sustainable economic activities for a healthy and resilient ocean.

UNDP's Ocean Innovation Challenge (OIC) will provide financial, mentoring and incubator support to these four ocean innovators, thereby contributing to the Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14 targets 14.2, 14.5 and 14.7).

The ocean provides a broad range of ecosystem services - such as food security, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation - yet two-thirds of the ocean is considered to have been negatively impacted by human activities.

"It's not too late to start a wiser and more sustainable relationship with our ocean. In this crucial time, let's care for the ocean as much as it has cared for us", says Peter Thompson, United Nations Special Envoy for the Ocean.

Through its Ocean Promise, UNDP has committed to deliver at least 100 Ocean Innovations by 2030. Supported by Sida and Norad, the third cohort receives financial support to ocean innovators of up to US$250,000 for two years, mentors and incubates innovative solutions that are transformational, scalable and replicable.