This open plenary highlights the drivers and impact of marine science today and the enduring and emerging challenges for marine science in 2017 and beyond.
Throughout the year, seas and oceans have been high on the political agenda. Society continues to look to the oceans to provide energy and to feed people, as a source of minerals and chemicals, and for trade, recreation and tourism. But society also recognises the role of the oceans in regulating climate and supporting biodiversity. Science plays a central role in identifying new opportunities and risks and in describing and addressing trade-offs between use and protection of the sea. Science is also continuing to advance our understanding of marine systems and their interactions with society and underpinning a growing range of advice.
Following our review of the main drivers we show how the Theme Sessions and Open Sessions at the ASC address ongoing and emerging challenges for marine science and the expected scope, scale and impact of outcomes.
Given the current societal focus on seas and oceans, ICES has potential to be more impactful than ever and must raise a scientific voice among the many headlines. Going forward, ICES will need to find a path that allows us to provide excellent science, data and advice for the benefit of society while staying true to some immutable values: on the conduct of science, on supporting and training marine scientists, on maintaining strong and enduring international ties, on accurate communication of science and on achieving seamless interactions between science, data and advice.
