IMarEST Becomes UN Ocean Decade Implementing Partner & Targets Key Challenges

The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) has been officially recognized as an Implementing Partner of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030 (UN Ocean Decade).

This partnership positions the Institute to be a leader in global efforts to provide the necessary science for achieving a desirable future for the ocean. As an Implementing Partner, the IMarEST joins a worldwide network of prominent organizations collaborating to tackle the ten Decade Challenges.

The Institute will primarily use its global network of marine professionals to help address three specific challenges. These include Challenge 2, which focuses on protecting ecosystems and biodiversity; Challenge 5, aimed at developing a sustainable, resilient, and equitable ocean economy; and Challenge 9, concerning the assurance of skills, knowledge, technology, and participation for all.

The IMarEST is well-suited to contribute to the UN Ocean Decade outcomes, which are led by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, given its established role as a respected technical voice in the marine world. It uses its international influence to foster a safe and sustainable future for the industry. With international members spanning fields such as oceanography, conservation, manufacturing, and shipping, the IMarEST is also uniquely capable of promoting collaboration and knowledge-sharing across various marine disciplines.

Niru Dorrian, IMarEST Ambassador to the UN Ocean Decade, stated, “The UN Ocean Decade provides an unprecedented platform to support science, policy, industry, and communities around shared goals, and I am incredibly proud that we have established this formal partnership. Becoming an Implementing Partner strengthens our ability to connect expertise, amplify professional voices, and build lasting collaborations that support sustainable ocean management and development.”

Alison Clausen, Deputy Coordinator of the UN Ocean Decade at IOC, commented, “IMarEST’s engagement brings invaluable expertise and reach to the UN Ocean Decade community. By connecting marine engineers, scientists, and technologists worldwide, the Institute strengthens our shared effort to turn knowledge into action for a healthy and resilient ocean.”

This formal recognition is built upon the IMarEST’s existing relationship with the UN Ocean Decade, as several of its initiatives have already been endorsed for their contribution to providing science-based solutions for a sustainable and healthy ocean.