WILLEMSTAD – The Carmabi Foundation has endorsed the global manifesto “Science for Ocean Action,” which was presented this week during the One Ocean Science Congress in Nice, France. The manifesto, drafted by hundreds of international scientists, was handed over to delegates attending the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference, also being held in Nice next week. It stresses that while scientific knowledge about the state of our oceans is readily available, bold political action is urgently needed to turn that knowledge into effective policy.
Our Ocean Under Pressure
The ocean is vital for climate regulation, biodiversity, food security, and the well-being of billions of people. Yet its resilience is being rapidly eroded. Rising temperatures and acidity, pollution, overexploitation of marine resources, and inequitable access are all placing the natural balance of our oceans in serious jeopardy. The science is clear: inaction is no longer an option.
From Knowledge to Action
What gives the manifesto its power is the combination of robust scientific data with local and Indigenous knowledge. Together, they deliver a unified message: transformation is possible—but only if political leaders are willing to act. Where scientific consensus exists, swift policy action must follow. In areas of uncertainty, caution—not risky experimentation—should guide decisions.
Equity and Transparency
The authors of the manifesto stress that ocean knowledge must serve both people and the planet. This means investing in marine research, education, and local leadership. It also means recognizing the rights of coastal communities and Indigenous peoples to participate in decision-making and ensuring a fair distribution of ocean resources. Transparency and the precautionary principle must always lead the way.
Why Carmabi Supports the Manifesto
For Carmabi—which has been dedicated to land and marine conservation for over 70 years—this call to action is a natural fit. The organization conducts scientific research, protects ecosystems in parks such as the Curaçao Marine Park and the Mangrove Park, and provides education for both youth and adults. From the conference in Nice, Carmabi Director Dr. Manfred van Veghel emphasized the significance of global appeals like this one:
“The ocean connects us all. Both locally and globally, we depend on its health. This manifesto makes it clear: it’s time to use science not just as a warning system, but as a driver of real change. That mission is fully aligned with ours.”
Working Together for a Healthy Ocean
Carmabi calls on other environmental organizations, governments, and citizens to also advocate for a fair, science-based approach to ocean management. The future of our oceans demands cooperation, courage, and leadership—now more than ever. Because there can be no healthy planet without a healthy ocean.
The full manifesto can be found at: www.one-ocean-science-2025.org
