APPG launches new inquiry into sustainable ocean policy

The All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Ocean has today launched an inquiry into what can Sustainable Ocean Policy Deliver for the UK? This will be the APPG’s first inquiry since the General Election and will focus on:

• Demonstrating the untapped potential of the ocean in delivering key government priorities.

• Promoting the understanding of the ocean as a driver of innovation.

• Identifying opportunities for policy coherence and cross-departmental collaboration in ocean governance.

• Highlighting the enabling role of marine science, data, and innovation in maximising ocean-based solutions to inform policy making.

• Promoting integrated approaches to marine environmental protection, recognising sustainability as a foundation for future ocean investment.

The APPG will accept written evidence until 23.59 on the 11th of July. There will be up to two oral evidence sessions held with dates to be announced in due course.  The APPG hopes to publish the report in the Autumn.

Respondents are asked to submit evidence and any questions to: contact@oceanappg.org.

When emailing the APPG, please also indicate your interest in providing oral evidence, and note that all responses limited to 500 words per question. This inquiry will cover Great Britain, Northern Ireland and British Overseas Territories.

The full questions and terms of reference for the inquiry are below.

Commenting, Sarah Champion MP, Chair of the APPG for the Ocean said:

 “I am delighted to launch the APPGs first inquiry of this parliament.

“Our oceans have a vital role to play in delivering on the Government’s key priorities both nationally and internationally and it is vital that a sustainable and deliverable oceans policy lies at the heart of Government’s agenda.

“We look forward to hearing from all interested parties about how to tackle the challenges that we face, conserve our ocean and crucially, how we can maximise the role of marine science, ocean research and innovation, and a sustainable blue economy to meet our UK and International objectives.”

 Inquiry Questions

1. Building a Sustainable and Inclusive Blue Economy

How can the UK grow a sustainable blue economy that delivers long-term jobs, prosperity, and innovation?

• What is the potential economic value of the UK's marine industries?

• What are the barriers and opportunities to scaling blue economy sectors, including renewable energy, sustainable fisheries, marine technology, and coastal tourism?

• What infrastructure and investment are needed to support ocean innovation?

• How can the UK ensure marine conservation and protection is upheld during future ocean initiatives?

2. International Leadership

How can the UK maintain and strengthen its leadership in global ocean governance?

• What future role can the UK play in global marine conservation and ocean diplomacy? What is needed to achieve this?

• Does, and if so how, the UK's international commitments, agreements or frameworks (e.g., UN Ocean Decade, BBNJ Treaty, Commonwealth Blue Charter) support domestic policy?

• How can the UK promote sustainable ocean finance and knowledge-sharing internationally?

3. Climate Change and Net Zero

What is the role of the ocean in meeting the UK’s climate and Net Zero goals?

• How can ocean-based climate and net zero solutions (e.g., offshore wind, blue carbon habitats) contribute to the UK’s targets?

• How can sustainable ocean management contribute to the UK’s Net Zero goals and wider environmental targets?

• What is the role of ocean conservation (e.g., marine protected areas, habitat restoration) in building long-term climate resilience?

• How can marine research and science support adaptation and resilience in the face of climate change?

• What are the benefits and challenges to the ocean and coastal waters from human interactions including tourism, leisure cruising and recreation including water sports? 

4. National Security and Ocean Resilience

How does the ocean contribute to the UK’s national security and resilience?

• What are the emerging risks and threats linked to ocean health and national infrastructure, and how can these be overcome?

• How do ocean observations support the protection of the UK marine assets?