IOC Sub-Commission for the Western Pacific (WESTPAC)
Advancing knowledge and cooperation for a healthy ocean and prosperous society
Work Area #1:
Ocean Science-Policy Interface
From Warnings to Solutions
Wise policy decisions are rooted in sound science and knowledge. The Sub-Commission forges ocean science-policy interface, and creates an enabling environment for policy/decision makers, resource managers, ocean research communities and other partners, to collectively find transformative solutions to the existing and future challenges that face the ocean and thus humankind.
The Sub-Commission convened its regular Intergovernmental Sessions every two years, participated in by national governmental representatives and ocean scientists, to reflect common and emerging ocean issues and threats, formulate strategies and directions, establish and provide oversight for joint programmes, and take collective actions.
The WESTPAC International Marine Science Conference (Formerly known as ‘the WESTPAC Scientific Symposium’), organized every three years, provides an essential opportunity for all ocean stakeholders in the region to advance ocean knowledge, catalyze inter- and cross-disciplinary collaborations, energize the ocean science for future generations, identify and develop solution-oriented approach to ocean sustainability that this particular region endeavors to achieve.
At national and local levels, the Sub-Commission has been working hand in hand with its Member States, conducting site or country-specific programmes and activities addressing their specific needs for marine biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and capacity development.
See previous Intergovernmental Sessions here.
See previous WESTPAC International Marine Science Conferences here.