Nov 11, 2024
One Ocean Foundation at COP29: promoting the blue economy
From seaweed restoration to digital innovation: one ocean foundation leads blue economy conversations at COP29
Today, November 11, 2024, COP29 officially opens in Baku, Azerbaijan, a pivotal event to accelerate global action on climate change and environmental conservation. One Ocean Foundation is actively participating with a series of key sessions, aiming to showcase the blue economy’s potential as a driver of sustainable growth and marine ecosystem health.
On November 16, at the Ocean Pavilion, One Ocean Foundation will proudly host and moderate a key panel titled "The Blue Business Opportunities: Unlocking Sustainable Growth and Investment Potential," led by our Secretary General, Jan Pachner. This session will explore how companies can create economic value while actively supporting the health of marine and coastal ecosystems.
Joined by distinguished experts Torsten Thiele and Kilaparti Ramakrishna, the discussion will center on the role of nature-based solutions as drivers of both sustainability and profitability. We will showcase the most innovative blue business opportunities, including seaweed restoration, ocean pollution control technologies, and offshore renewable energy solutions. Special attention will be given to the innovative financial instruments supporting blue business growth, such as blue bonds, sustainability-linked loans, and blended financing programs that fund projects like the restoration of blue carbon ecosystems.
In addition to our main event at the Ocean Pavilion, One Ocean Foundation will also contribute to other significant sessions at COP29, bringing our expertise in various aspects of ocean conservation:
• "As Above, So Below" – Wednesday, November 13, 11:00-12:00: This session explores the interconnectedness of land and marine reforestation projects, drawing inspiration from Hermetic philosophy. With voices from India, Colombia, Austria, Bulgaria, Azerbaijan, and the UK, this panel offers a unique opportunity to promote international climate action through diverse cultural perspectives, emphasizing the unity between terrestrial and marine ecosystems.
• Shipping and Climate: Addressing the Triple Planetary Crisis – Friday, November 15, 15:30-17:00, Science for Climate Action Pavilion, Blue Zone: his panel addresses the urgent need to balance global trade demands with environmental imperatives. Experts from the maritime industry and international organizations will explore strategies to decarbonize shipping, mitigate underwater radiated noise, and reduce ship-generated waste, all while sustaining economic growth. Drawing on insights from the Blue Economy Round Table Forum at Monaco Ocean Week and the Malmö Forum, this session offers actionable pathways to meet the IMO’s 2030 and 2050 targets, ensuring a resilient and equitable future for the maritime sector.
• "Leveraging Web3 Technology for Sustainable Outcomes in Ocean Conservation" – Wednesday, November 13, 10:00 at the Digital Innovation Pavilion: This panel delves into the potential of Web3 technologies for ocean conservation, featuring One Ocean Foundation’s Ocean Disclosure Initiative. We will discuss how digital innovation can enhance transparency and effectiveness in marine health interventions, unlocking new frontiers for sustainability through emerging technologies and artificial intelligence.
• "Scaling Blue Carbon Investments" - Saturday, November 16, 8:30-10:00 at Ocean Pavilion: An interactive workshop exploring pathways to unlock investment and scale blue carbon ecosystem restoration. This session bring together policy, science, finance, and project development stakeholders to address key challenges such as regulatory barriers, investor risks, and high project costs. Participants collaborate to generate actionable insights and forge partnerships, ensuring blue carbon ecosystems fulfill their potential for climate mitigation, biodiversity support, and coastal community resilience. Blue Zone badge required.
One Ocean Foundation invites everyone to join these events and learn how investments in the blue economy can drive positive impact and generate new revenue streams, combining profit and ocean protection. For us, COP29 represents a vital platform to inspire global commitment and promote solutions that truly make a difference for our planet.
