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| Abstract Submission No. | ABS-2022-01-0142 |
| Title of Abstract | Ocean Accounting: Integrating transdisciplinary ocean data to bridge the science-policy gap for ocean sustainable development |
| Authors | Ken Findlay*, Jordan Gacutan, Tainã G. Loureiro |
| Organisation | Cape Peninsula University of Technology |
| Address | Oceans Economy, Faculty of Applied Sciences, CPUT, P.O. Box 652 Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa Pincode: 8000 Mobile: 825708212 E-mail: findlayk@cput.ac.za |
| Country | South Africa |
| Presentation | Oral |
| Abstract | Ocean accounts allow the compilation of a series of standardised and regular measurements of ocean information pertaining to the environmental, social and economic domains in a comprehensive framework that enables data integration through the identification and quantification of stocks and flows between discrete accounting systems. When compiled at regular intervals, ocean accounts allow the identification of trends and evidence changes in ocean characteristics or ocean resource use over time. Accordingly, ocean accounts underpin the balance between ocean health and wealth, providing indicators for sustainability, and enables the identification of patterns related to the distribution of benefits and access, contributing with indicators for inclusivity and equitability. Such holistic indicators are critical for informed and evidence-based decision-making processes, particularly when prioritising models that include the ocean's contribution to societal wellbeing instead of its contribution to economic metrics only. The wealth of information and knowledge generated through ocean research is critical to support ocean governance, particularly when framed in a standardised, coherent and cohesive manner. An ocean accounts framework provides such a structure. For example, biophysical oceanographic data can play an essential role in underpinning marine ecosystem accounts and identifying, quantifying and qualifying marine ecosystem assets and services. Empirical evidence is especially crucial towards addressing complex policy challenges and strategic objectives, such as conservation targets or sustainable and ocean-based economic development agendas. Notably, ocean accounts are an emergent tool that can bridge the gap between science and policymaking, providing intuitive, relatable and comparable benchmarked indicators that can signal the efficacy of policy in adaptative policy cycles and adaptative management. At the same time, by highlighting knowledge gaps, ocean accounts can support research and funding prioritisation, strengthening links between research and governance. |