Friends of Ocean Action
Friends of Ocean Action is a unique, informal group of global ocean leaders from a range of sectors who are fast-tracking solutions to the most pressing challenges facing the ocean. Its members – the Friends – come from business, government, civil society, international organizations, science and technology.
We use our knowledge, means and influence to take the urgent steps needed to conserve and sustainably use our ocean, seas and marine resources — and to keep the ocean at the heart of the climate, economic and policy agendas that will define the next decade.
Friends of Ocean Action is a community hosted by the World Economic Forum, bringing together leaders with the experience, influence and commitment to advance ocean action.
The Friends work through strategic dialogue, collaboration and coalition-building to support progress on ocean governance, conservation, innovation, climate resilience and sustainable ocean economies, contributing to the delivery of SDG 14: Life Below Water.
Driving collective ocean action
The Friends of Ocean Action are channelling their collective influence into three priorities that will define the next phase of ocean action.
1. Shape the future of ocean governance
As Sustainable Development Goal 14 enters its next phase, the Friends convene leaders to align priorities, broaden the conversation across regions and sectors, and shape what ocean governance must look like as the ocean becomes inseparable from the climate, security and resilience agendas ahead.
2. Drive 30x30 from pledge to reality
As 2030 approaches, the Friends mobilize to advance high-integrity 30x30 initiatives and priority Marine Protected Areas — linking finance, science, policy and business to close evidence gaps, build investable models, and unlock the public and private finance needed to deliver protection that works for both nature and people.
3. Mobilizing business for the blue transition
Friends of Ocean Action bring business, finance and industry leaders together to accelerate solutions and investment models that align economic activity with ocean health and equity. By connecting the private sector with policymakers, conservation actors and communities, Friends help build momentum for sustainable ocean management and the 30x30 agenda.
Part of Centre for Nature and Climate
Friends of Ocean Action is convened by the Ocean Action Agenda at the World Economic Forum’s Centre for Nature and Climate. Alongside ACT Ocean, it brings together the leadership, policy and action needed to secure a healthy and thriving ocean.
Friends of Ocean Action
A World Economic Forum Initiative