New Co-Lab Paper Published: Advancing Ocean Sustainability Through Better Science Integration

Early Career Ocean Professionals Workshop

Future Earth Australia (FEA) is excited to announce the publication of a new paper in Frontiers in Ocean Sustainability, titled “Advancing ocean sustainability through better science integration: perspectives of Early Career Ocean Professionals.” 

This collaborative paper is a direct outcome of the Early Career Ocean Professionals Workshop held in 2024 on the Gold Coast, Australia. The workshop, organised by FEA and hosted by Griffith University and the University of the Sunshine Coast, provided a transdisciplinary platform for diverse researchers and professionals to identify key gaps and opportunities in ocean science. The discussions were ignited by FEA’s Sustainable Oceans and Coasts Strategy, and led to a synthesis of recommendations designed to align with the vision and mission of the UN Ocean Decade (2021–2030). 

This paper brings forward the voices of Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs), highlighting their role in addressing ocean-related challenges. It identifies three priority recommendations to bridge existing gaps in ocean science: 

  1. fostering a culture of active and transparent data sharing, 

  1. valuing and integrating diverse knowledge systems, and 

  1. enhancing interdisciplinary and cross-jurisdictional knowledge-sharing. 

The paper outlines actionable steps that all actors in ocean science—across disciplines and institutions—can take to implement these recommendations. 

We extend our congratulations to the authors: 

Maria Vozzo, Marina Christofidis, Laura Griffiths, Rachel Kelly, Michelle Manion, Shayan Barmand, Jessica Bolin, Pablo Alfonso Fuenzalida Miralles, Melanie Harris, Abby Issell, Caitlin Kuempel, Marycarmen Martinez Diaz, Michael Murunga, Ph.D., Sophie Palmer, Nina Schäfer, and Jamie Simpson.

Frontiers in Ocean Sustainability

Read the full open-access paper here: Frontiers in Ocean Sustainability 

 

We are grateful to Jemma Purandare, FEA’s Co-Chair and Early Career Researcher and Professional (ECRP) representative, and David Schoeman from the University of the Sunshine Coast, for their invaluable contributions to this effort. Thanks also to Christina Buelow for presenting on the day. We also extend our appreciation to Griffith University and the University of the Sunshine Coast for hosting the workshop and supporting the next generation of ocean sustainability leaders. 

This paper exemplifies the power of collaboration in advancing transdisciplinary, science-driven solutions for sustainable oceans. We look forward to further initiatives that empower early career researchers and professionals to shape the future of ocean sustainability.