OECD work in support of a sustainable ocean
Science, technology and innovation will play a growing role in managing the development of the ocean economy in a responsible way.
Science, technology and innovation for a sustainable ocean economy
A new STI context for the ocean Advances in the ocean economy go hand in hand with innovations in science and technology. Galvanised by digitalisation, the transformation of scientific research and innovation processes is speeding up in many parts of the world, in almost all disciplines and sectors of the economy (OECD, 2018). The adoption of disruptive technologies (e.g.
Exploitation of the ocean and its resources is more
artificial intelligence, big data, blockchain) is affecting
intensive than ever before, raising concerns about its
academic research areas and business innovation cycles
physical capacity to cope. At the same time, scientific
alike. The promotion of collaborative and open innovation
understanding of the ocean and its ecosystems –
is also changing the way researchers are training and
their properties and behaviour, their health and
working together. At the policy level, national research
role in weather and climate change – is gradually
agendas are increasingly emphasising the need to tackle
improving, although many questions remain. Science,
“grand challenges” in multiple economic, societal and
technology and innovation (STI) will play a crucial
environmental areas. In some countries, this new focus
role in responsibly managing diverse ocean economies
takes the shape of mission-oriented STI policies, steering
and responding effectively to the growing challenges
the direction of science and technology towards ambitious
associated with their development.
and socially-relevant goals. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are also re-shaping some STI policy agendas.
30 . OECD WORK IN SUPPORT OF A SUSTAINABLE OCEAN
