STATEMENT: More Than 30 Countries Join New OceanEye Alliance to Strengthen Global Ocean Observation

NEW YORK (September 23, 2026) - Today, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney launched the OceanEye International Alliance, a new effort to strengthen global ocean observation and secure more sustainable support for the Global Ocean Observing System.

The alliance aims to close critical monitoring gaps, broaden financial and in-kind support and improve access to the ocean data countries need to prepare for extreme weather, manage marine resources and strengthen coastal resilience.

More than 30 countries across Europe, Africa and the Americas joined the new alliance, with pledges totaling at least €211 million to strengthen global ocean observation.

Following is a statement from Tom Pickerell, Global Director of WRI's Ocean Program and a member of the European Commission's European Ocean Board:

"The consequences of an ocean altered by climate change are playing out in real time: record surface temperatures, more intense storms, shifting fisheries and growing threats to people's food and livelihoods, all exacerbated by an unprecedented El Niño.

"Countries can be far better prepared to withstand these impacts. That starts with better data and monitoring to understand how the ocean is changing - and how fast. The OceanEye Alliance will strengthen the vital, yet unsung, ocean observation systems that economies depend on. These systems underpin everything from countries' weather forecasts and disaster warnings to maritime safety, food security and sustainable ocean management.

"More than 30 countries signing on is a powerful show of support for a stronger, more connected global ocean observing system. Much of the existing global ocean observation system still depends on short-term funding concentrated in too few places. The OceanEye Alliance can help protect the observing networks and decades of ocean records already in place, while expanding access to data and strengthening cooperation between countries.

"Better ocean data means better decisions. It helps governments spot risks earlier, protect communities and livelihoods, and build more resilient economies in the face of extreme weather. For Ocean Panel member countries and others committed to 100% sustainable management of their national waters, better data keeps Sustainable Ocean Plans grounded in reality - showing where risks are growing, whether action is working and when governments need to change course."

• John Lyons

  Senior Communications Manager, Ocean Program

• Sophie Brady

  Media Relations Specialist