As the world grapples with the pressing issue of climate change, the role of the ocean in mitigating this global crisis has become increasingly significant.
The Ocean Race, a premier global sailing competition, has been at the forefront of promoting ocean health and sustainability. Its presence at the World Economic Forum (WEF) has been instrumental in bringing these issues to the forefront of global discussions. This article delves into the Ocean Race’s participation at the WEF and its impact on global sustainability efforts.
Table of Contents
- Background of the Ocean Race
- The Ocean Race at the World Economic Forum
- Impact of the Ocean Race’s Presence at the WEF
- Case Study: The Ocean Race’s Sustainability Initiatives
- Conclusion
Background of the Ocean Race
The Ocean Race, formerly known as the Volvo Ocean Race, is a yacht race around the world, held every three years. Since its inception in 1973, the race has evolved into a platform for raising awareness about the importance of ocean health and sustainability. The race’s commitment to these issues is evident in its Sustainability Programme, which aims to minimize the event’s environmental footprint, maximize its social impact, and leave a positive legacy.
The Ocean Race at the World Economic Forum
The World Economic Forum, an international organization for public-private cooperation, provides a platform for leaders from various sectors to discuss pressing global issues. The Ocean Race’s presence at the WEF has been instrumental in bringing the issue of ocean health to the global stage. In 2019, the Ocean Race was invited to the WEF in Davos, Switzerland, where it hosted a series of events focused on ocean health and sustainability.
One of the key events was the Ocean Day, a full day dedicated to discussions on the role of the ocean in global climate regulation, food security, and economic development. The event brought together leaders from business, government, academia, and civil society to explore solutions for a healthy and productive ocean.
Impact of the Ocean Race’s Presence at the WEF
The Ocean Race’s presence at the WEF has had a significant impact on global sustainability efforts. By bringing the issue of ocean health to the forefront of global discussions, the race has helped to raise awareness about the importance of the ocean in mitigating climate change and promoting sustainable development.
According to a report by the World Economic Forum, the ocean is the seventh largest economy in the world, if measured as a country. However, it is under threat from overfishing, pollution, and climate change. The Ocean Race’s presence at the WEF has helped to highlight these issues and promote solutions for a healthy and productive ocean.
Case Study: The Ocean Race’s Sustainability Initiatives
One of the key initiatives of the Ocean Race’s Sustainability Programme is the Science Programme, which uses the race to collect valuable data on ocean health. During the 2017-2018 edition of the race, the teams collected data on microplastics in the ocean, which was shared with scientists around the world. This data has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the extent of plastic pollution in the ocean and its impact on marine life.
Another initiative is the Education Programme, which aims to inspire and engage the next generation of ocean advocates. The programme provides educational resources on ocean health and sustainability, reaching over 110,000 children in 41 countries during the 2017-2018 edition of the race.
Conclusion
The Ocean Race’s presence at the World Economic Forum has been instrumental in promoting ocean health and sustainability on the global stage. By bringing these issues to the forefront of global discussions, the race is playing a crucial role in raising awareness about the importance of the ocean in mitigating climate change and promoting sustainable development. As the world continues to grapple with the pressing issue of climate change, the role of the ocean, and initiatives like the Ocean Race, will become increasingly significant.
