From climate change to plastic pollution, overfishing to biodiversity loss, our oceans are under threat. But there is hope. Following World Ocean Day at the start of June, world leaders, UN agencies, scientists, NGOs, Indigenous Peoples, grassroots campaigners, brands, business leaders, and creatives will come together for the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC). With heads of state sharing space with local communities, sustainability strategists, and ocean advocates, this gathering represents one of the most diverse and high-impact conversations the ocean has ever seen and it’s shaping up to be a crucial moment for ocean action.
This isn’t just a diplomatic gathering. UNOC is a global call to protect the blue heart of our planet. For brands, NGOs, and sustainability communicators, it’s a unique chance to play a meaningful role.
So, what actually is UNOC?
The United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) is a summit focused on accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goal number 14: “Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources.”
Co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, UNOC will bring together world leaders, scientists, Indigenous groups, businesses, NGOs and creatives to:
- Speed up action to protect our oceans
- Mobilise funding for a fair and sustainable blue economy
- Share marine science and knowledge
- Launch new partnerships and voluntary commitments
- Finalise the “Nice Ocean Action Plan” – a bold blueprint for global ocean stewardship
Photos below, from last year’s summit held in Barcelona.
“UNOC is a pivotal moment for global ocean governance. We’re halfway through the Ocean Decade and need different parties to mobilise $100 billion in commitments. We alll know that we don’t need another conference to raise awareness of the problem we face, this is an opportunity for very specific leaders to sign on the dotted line to drive action, whilst providing a platform for the ocean community to spotlight the stories that ultimately move the needle. This moment feels like a real moment of momentum,”
– Hugo Tagholm Enviral’s Non-Exec Director, and Exec Director at Oceana
Key themes to watch:
- Ocean Conservation:
From overfishing to ocean acidification, the degradation of marine ecosystems is front and centre. UNOC 2025 will push forward the global goal of protecting 30% of our ocean by 2030, as outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. - Blue Economy:
The ocean generates an estimated $2.5 trillion annually, supporting livelihoods from seafood to shipping. UNOC will spotlight sustainable business models that align with Net Zero goals and ESG standards, helping brands future-proof their operations and supply chains. - Climate Justice:
Coastal communities, Indigenous Peoples, and small island nations are on the frontlines of ocean-related climate impacts. UNOC will champion equity, calling for more inclusive policy and business decisions that recognise these voices. - Marine Biodiversity:
Oceans are home to more than 240,000 known species and potentially millions more. UNOC will focus on expanding marine protected areas and implementing international agreements like the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty (BBNJ).
Why this matters for brands, NGOs, and communicators
- For purpose-led brands:
UNOC provides a clear signal of where the world is heading. It’s an opportunity for businesses to align with global goals, commit to ocean-positive strategies, and use their influence to inspire action, whether through sustainable sourcing, packaging innovation, or partnerships that restore marine ecosystems. - For NGOs and advocacy groups:
This is a big moment to shape policy, secure funding and scale impact through collaboration. The multi-stakeholder format means smaller players can have a big voice and build lasting coalitions. - For sustainability communicators (hi, that’s us):
There’s an ocean of stories waiting to be told. The conference will offer new data, perspectives, and case studies to bring ocean issues to life for mainstream audiences. It’s a chance to turn complexity into clarity and urgency into action. We’re looking to share an exciting rebrand project we’ve been working on in line with UNOC and World Oceans Day.
What happens after UNOC?
After the conference, the real work begins. Businesses will need to move from pledges to progress. NGOs will keep holding stakeholders accountable, bridging science and grassroots movements.
Success will depend on strong governance, transparent reporting, and fair access to ocean benefits. Those who lead the charge–especially brands and charities– stand to unlock more than just reputational value. We’re talking long-term resilience, relevance, and regenerative growth.
We’re living within the UNESCO Ocean Decade, a global initiative aimed at unlocking the knowledge we need to restore, protect, and sustainably manage our ocean.
Let’s make it count.
At Enviral, we’re on a mission to stop global yawning. In a world facing urgent environmental and social challenges, how we communicate has never mattered more. If your brand is looking to deliver bold, engaging, and effective sustainability communications, get in touch. We’d love to help you make your message matter.