On this World Ocean Day, I’m encouraged by global progress in protecting and conserving our oceans. In 2022, the United States launched the Ocean Conservation Pledge, joined by 19 countries, committing to conserve 30% of our ocean by 2030. Together, we can meet the global 30×30 commitment to conserve or protect 30 percent of our ocean.
Every day, the United States works to support a sustainable blue economy that protects the economic, security, and environmental benefits of the ocean. This includes supporting ocean-based climate solutions such as initiatives that deploy offshore renewable energy, reduce emissions from the shipping sector, promote sustainable tourism and fisheries, and protect and restore blue carbon ecosystems. In the past year, the United States launched the Green Shipping Challenge, the IUU Fishing Action Alliance, and the initiative for Atlantic Cooperation, joined the All-Atlantic Ocean Research and Innovation Alliance (AAORIA) Declaration, the International Alliance to Combat Ocean Acidification and the Global Offshore Wind Alliance, and continued to support the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance.
We will continue to build upon this global momentum to protect our ocean for all those who depend on it and for all to enjoy.