What's Happening?
The Ocean Equity Index (OEI) has been developed as the first global framework to quantitatively assess equity in ocean-related initiatives. Created by CNRS scientists with support from the Foundation for Research on Biodiversity, the OEI evaluates 12
criteria, scoring each from 0 to 3, to measure fairness in marine projects and policies. This tool aims to address challenges in defining and monitoring equity, providing a measurable standard for assessing rights, participation, and benefit sharing among stakeholders. The OEI is accessible to a wide range of users, including local communities, NGOs, and governments, and is available online and offline.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of the OEI represents a significant step towards promoting social and environmental equity in ocean-related projects. By providing a standardized method for assessing fairness, the OEI can help identify disparities in the distribution of benefits from ocean industries, such as aquaculture and maritime transport. This tool is particularly relevant as the benefits of these industries are often concentrated among a few major players, while marginalized groups, including Indigenous peoples and small-scale fishers, bear the negative impacts. The OEI could influence policy decisions and promote more equitable distribution of resources and benefits.
What's Next?
Scientists are urging governments and international organizations to adopt the OEI to ensure fairer distribution of ocean resources. The tool's implementation could lead to more inclusive decision-making processes and better protection of marine environments. As awareness of the OEI grows, it may become a critical component in evaluating and guiding ocean-related policies and initiatives, potentially leading to more sustainable and equitable outcomes.
