Oceans

The health of oceans is intimately connected with the health of the planet. And yet, oceans, which make up 71 percent of Earth, are facing immense risks due to climate change, pollution, and unsustainable fishing practices. International policy governing the ocean is in murky water. With ever-intensifying global environmental change upon us, charting a clear path for protecting the ocean will require smart policies and innovative programs. The goal of the Ocean Initiative at the Wilson Center is to develop landmark transdisciplinary programming that tackles key areas of oceanic policy: climate-proofing and resiliency development; strengthening security & governance; and tackling environmental epidemics, like ocean plastics. Over the next five years, the Ocean Initiative aims to advance public dialogue and bolster informed public policy dialogue multilaterally on these issues.