The Wiogen Micro Workshop 2 on Ocean Governance in the Context of Climate Change, featuring Judy Beaumont, focused on the critical issues raised in the special report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) on the Ocean and Cryosphere in climate change. Here are the key focus areas and discussion points from the presentation:
Key Focus Areas in the IPCC Special Report:
- Changes in the Ocean
- Risks to Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems
- Changes in Marine Life
- Sea Level Rise and Adaptation
- Ocean Governance Response Options
The presentation discussed various response options for ocean governance in the context of climate change, including:
- Action to Reduce Hazards: Strategies to mitigate the hazards associated with climate change impacts on the ocean, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and curbing pollution.
- Actions to Reduce Vulnerability: Measures to reduce the vulnerability of coastal communities and ecosystems to climate-related threats, such as improving coastal infrastructure and disaster preparedness.
- Actions to Reduce Exposure: Efforts to minimize exposure to climate risks, including land-use planning and zoning to limit development in high-risk coastal areas.
- Limits to Adaptation: Recognition that there are limits to how much adaptation can mitigate the impacts of climate change on the ocean and coastal areas.
- Strengthening Ocean Governance: The presentation highlighted the need to strengthen ocean governance response options and enablers to effectively address the challenges posed by climate change. This could involve international cooperation, policy development, and capacity building at various levels.
- Positive Developments: The discussion touched on positive developments and initiatives aimed at supporting effective ocean governance in the context of changing climate. This could include examples of successful adaptation projects, scientific collaborations, or policy advancements.
In summary, the presentation by Judy Beaumont provided valuable insights into the urgent need for coordinated action to address the impacts of climate change on the ocean and cryosphere. It emphasized the importance of combining scientific knowledge with local and indigenous knowledge and the role of education and climate literacy in building resilience. Additionally, it explored various response options and enablers for effective ocean governance in a changing climate.
