The deep ocean covers over 60% of the surface of our planet, yet historically, there has been very limited integration of deep-ocean knowledge within international governance frameworks. In 2013, a group of experts established the Deep-Ocean Stewardship Initiative (DOSI) to address this shortfall and facilitate effective mechanisms for the incorporation of deep-ocean science into global environmental governance.
DOSI operates by providing timely, accessible, independent, and evidence-based knowledge to stakeholders engaged in international policy negotiations. This knowledge is drawn from a truly global network of experts that includes scientists, lawyers and other knowledge holders who collaborate to advance DOSI’s mission of promoting responsible evidence-based stewardship of the deep ocean. Through this inclusive and interdisciplinary community, DOSI synthesises and communicates relevant scientific insights to support evidence-based decision-making in global governance contexts.
This presentation examines how DOSI has progressively refined its operational strategy over the past decade to maximise its effectiveness, influence, and policy relevance across key intergovernmental processes. By strategically engaging with these fora, DOSI has strengthened the integration of deep-ocean science in policy dialogues concerning climate change (UNFCCC), biodiversity conservation (CBD), seabed resource management (ISA), and high-seas governance (BBNJ).