IAEA Ocean Acidification International Coordination Centre (OA-ICC)

Our commitment to the ‘Ocean Acidification Research for Sustainability’ (OARS) UN Ocean Decade programme reflects a collective effort to address one of the most pressing challenges facing our oceans today. As stewards of our marine ecosystems, we recognize the importance of addressing the impacts of ocean acidification, as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal target 14.3. 

The Ocean Acidification International Coordination Centre (OA-ICC) has established a comprehensive capacity-building program targeting scientists from around the world, with a special emphasis on the developing nations. This program encompasses basic to advanced levels of proficiency in ocean acidification chemistry measurements, biological response assessments and specialized communication trainings. We empower IAEA Member States by equipping them with the tools they need, thereby enhancing local, regional and global monitoring and research capacities, to make meaningful contributions to Sustainable Development Goal Indicator 14.3.1. 

Furthermore, our commitment extends to supporting scientific collaboration between countries through dedicated joint projects on topics including: the biological impacts of ocean acidification, the broader socio-economic implications for food security and human activities, meta-analyses, and the impacts of multiple stressors on marine ecosystems. By fostering scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange, we strive to deepen our understanding of ocean acidification and its far-reaching consequences. 

We are committed to contributing to program support for OARS, including bolstering the GOA-ON Secretariat. Additionally, we maintain a suite of resources, including the OA News Stream, an extensive OA bibliographic database and a data compilation on the biological response to OA. These resources serve as valuable tools for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders alike, facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration on a global scale. 

In summary, our commitment to the OARS programme is a testament to our shared responsibility to protect and preserve our oceans. Through scientific cooperation and collective action, we strive to ensure a sustainable future for our marine ecosystems.