COP31 in Antalya Integrates Ocean into UN Climate Conference Agenda
COP31, the thirty-first Conference of the Parties on climate change, is taking place in Antalya, Turkey, from November 9 to 20, with a significant focus on the ocean. This marks a notable shift, as the ocean has historically been on the periphery of climate negotiations. The Turkish presidency has dedicated a specific agenda to oceans and seas, prioritizing blue carbon ecosystems, coastal ecosystem resilience, ocean observation and data partnerships, and support for vulnerable coastal communities. This emphasis follows the first ministerial meeting devoted to the ocean at COP30 and the Blue NDC Challenge, which encourages countries to integrate ocean protection into their national climate plans. The conference aims to translate ocean-climate ambition into practical action, particularly in the Mediterranean, which is experiencing record marine heatwaves and increased acidity.
