Welcome to the

Ocean Acidification Research for Sustainability (OARS) programme

The UN Ocean Decade endorsed programme, dedicated to minimising and addressing ocean acidification.

commit to the ocean

Across our planet, ocean acidification poses a real, and rapidly accelerating, threat to marine ecosystems and the people who depend on those ecosystems for their wellbeing and livelihoods. To meet this challenge we all need to act, from individuals and small groups to large multi-national organisations and governments. By publicly committing your action to OARS you not only show your own intention to address the growing ocean acidification crisis, but you also inspire others to join you and identify their own contributions. Whatever you can contribute, no matter how small it may seem, every single action counts and we welcome you all to become a part of delivering the ambitions and outcomes of the OARS UN Ocean Decade programme.

Reflecting on the vital role of the ocean to humans, the UN Ocean Decade offers a time to step up and engage such that we can make a difference to the future of how ocean acidification will play out. The UN-endorsed programme Ocean Acidification Research for Sustainability or OARS has identified seven outcomes, with pathways forward in each guided by community input, that collectively can illuminate and address impacts of ocean acidification. Now is the time to rally to see what you, what all of us, can do to help implement this effort.

Detecting ocean acidification is a first step, but in order to be able to combat its impacts we have to develop new strategies, addressing the causes, and ways to mitigate and adapt. Ocean acidification research co-developed by a variety of stakeholders is essential to safeguarding a thriving ocean—one that sustains livelihoods for billions. Join OARS and become part of a community as diverse as the solutions required for meaningful change.

Why write an OARS Commitment?

This is our moment to step forward and influence the trajectory of ocean acidification, recognising the pivotal role the ocean plays in our lives. The UN Ocean Decade offers a platform for us to engage and effect lasting change in how we navigate this challenge. Through the UN-endorsed OARS programme, with its seven outcomes driven by community input, we have a roadmap to illuminate and mitigate the impacts of ocean acidification. We must all rise to this occasion, to explore what each of us can contribute to this endeavour. The hopes of future generations hinge on our collective action. Let us all consider what we can do.

Commitments for Change

From individuals to global entities, each Commitment to one or more of the OARS outcomes signifies a pledge to combat this crisis and safeguard marine ecosystems and the well-being and livelihoods of those reliant on them. By publicly declaring your Commitment, you not only show the world what you are doing to address ocean acidification but also inspire others to join in, catalysing a chain reaction of positive contributions. Commitments will be highlighted on our website, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration. Every effort, regardless of its scale, holds significance, and we warmly invite you to be a part of realising the aspirations and outcomes of the OARS UN Ocean Decade programme.

about oars

Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal Target 14.3, OARS is dedicated to minimising and addressing the impacts of Ocean Acidification (OA) through enhanced cooperation at all levels.

OARS published seven White Papers in the Technical Report “Ocean Acidification Research for Sustainability – A Community Vision for the Ocean Decade”, outlining in seven Outcome Chapters the OARS UN Ocean Decade programme, highlighting the key outputs and products, describing the research and outreach activities and identifying the key inputs and partners necessary to successfully implement each Outcome.

Play Video about OARS Commitment campaign

Ocean Acidification Research for Sustainability (OARS) programme

commit to the ocean

Why write an OARS Commitment?

Commitments for Change

about oars

recent commitments

Raising awareness of ocean acidification through the Planet Ocean Exhibition

Marine Conservation Society

Back to Blue Initiative – raising public awareness around ocean acidification

With special thanks to