Brad Ack, CEO
It’s been a few weeks since our Biennial Summit wrapped in late March, and I’m still energized from the diversity and expertise of the attendees, the great content and discussions, and, most of all, the positive and steadfast dedication of all in attendance to rise together to face the enormous challenges ahead.
Held in the beautiful city of Vancouver, BC, nestled in the Frasier Basin and Georgia Strait, the backdrop provided a clear reminder of the “why” behind our work. Inside, the Summit convened many of our community’s brightest scientists, innovators, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and philanthropists—united by a shared mission to accelerate the development of ocean-based solutions to the climate crisis.
Over the course of three days, we dove into cutting-edge research, explored the latest on emerging technologies, and discussed the need for new partnerships and alignments in a fast-changing world order.
Whether you were with us in person or following along from afar, I want to share some of the key insights and moments that defined the Summit—and why they matter far beyond the conference walls.
371
SUMMIT ATTENDEES
24
COUNTRIES REPRESENTED
100
PERCENT THAT WOULD RECOMMEND THE SUMMIT
Acting with Urgency
From the first keynote to the final session, one message resonated clearly: We must rise to the challenge of this difficult moment and continue to move forward with renewed urgency. The ocean is both hard hit by climate change, and a crucial part of the diverse set of solutions we need to reverse the damage. The Summit provided ample evidence of the need for urgency in our collective efforts.
I think this is the only conference I’ve attended in the past few years that really addresses the urgent action that needs to be taken – and that is offering real-world solutions.”
– Catlina Reyes Varges, Ocean Hub Colombia
Shaping the Future of Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal
Progress towards proving the viability of marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) represented a significant focus of the event, with in-depth discussions on current efforts, research needs, and, most importantly, strategies to move potential pathways towards becoming viable climate solutions. One theme throughout the Summit was on creating a shared strategy to advance mCDR to a policy decision point by 2030, fostering alignment across scientific, policy, and investment communities.
Meanwhile, panelists from the Pacific Northwest showcased how the region is positioning itself as a hub for mCDR, and Canada showed how it is stepping into a leading role in integrating research, technology, and policy to accelerate impact. These conversations reinforced the fact that while some countries may be pulling back, others will step forward, and there is a critical role for both sub-national governments and non-governmental actors to scale responsible and effective solutions.
I see a fantastic generational shift. I’m so happy to see the people coming into the science and policy field so well represented.
– Rafe Pomerance, ReThink Energy Florida, Woodwell Climate Institute
Increasing Support and Understanding Political Realities
A recurring theme throughout the Summit, with one session specifically dedicated to it, was how to navigate the shifting political landscapes that are causing tremendous disruptions to our collective progress. Experts provided insights on navigating nationalism, climate denialism, and policy shifts to maintain momentum.
One of the most consequential sessions explored how to more effectively communicate the science, methods, potential, and societal impacts of ocean-based climate solutions like mCDR. A diverse panel provided unique perspectives on challenges and strategies for informing audiences in this rapidly evolving field.
The past few days have been very eye-opening, including around shifting political priorities that are affecting the work being done by everyone.
– Ture Laiti, Operaatio Arktis
Moving from Research to Real-World Impact
A major highlight was hearing from entrepreneurs and researchers who are translating cutting-edge science into real-world applications. The “straight outta academia to entrepreneurship” panel featured the stories of former academics now fully immersed in starting companies. Another panel underscored the importance of bridging the gap between research and commercialization, while a session on Ocean Visions’ accelerator program Launchpad gave a platform to emerging innovators to present their breakthrough technologies.
The introduction of Ocean Visions’ new Reduce (ocean-based decarbonization) program initiatives marked an exciting step forward in our work to advance the ocean’s potential to help reduce society’s emissions of greenhouse gases. Through interactive sessions, we identified key priorities and action areas to guide this initiative’s future impact.
Exploring the Emotional Dimension of Ocean-Climate Work
Beyond the science and strategy, one of the most important sessions was dedicated to navigating the occupational hazards that we all face in this work – anxiety and grief. A plenary session on how to manage these twin challenges provided a much-needed space to discuss the emotional toll that ocean and climate professionals often experience, confronting the overwhelming daily evidence of the pain we are inflicting on our natural world. This session gave voice to real challenges and recognized that we need to take care of our emotional health if we are to be effective over the long term.
Looking Down the Road Ahead
As we look forward, one thing is clear: Despite the political cataclysms of the moment, the work and momentum we’ve built together will continue to grow. The connections made, the ideas sparked, and the strategies discussed will serve as a foundation for the work ahead.
I encourage everyone—whether you attended or not—to engage with the insights and outcomes of this summit. Join the conversation, explore collaboration opportunities, and help drive the change we need to reverse the ocean and climate crises and to build a sustainable world. One good place to start is to sign up to receive regular news and opportunities from Ocean Visions and its partners. You can also check out the Summit program to explore and review the sessions and associated speakers and panelists; we encourage you to reach out and make connections.
To all our attendees, speakers, panelists, sponsors and partners—thank you for your dedication, expertise, and vision! You all inspire me! Now let’s keep this energy alive and carry it forward into a redoubled effort to restore the ocean and the climate.
Yours in the beauty of nature and the ocean,
Brad
P.S. Want more? Listen to the Summit episode on PlanSea, a semi-weekly podcast exploring ocean-based climate solutions.