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Moderated by journalist Katri Makkonen and organized by the John Nurminen Foundation, the event featured Fabien Cousteau, aquanaut and oceanographic explorer, founder of the Fabien Cousteau Ocean Learning Center and the PROTEUS™ project. Cousteau shared his in-depth knowledge of ocean advocacy, also showcasing some of his extraordinary underwater footage. For Cousteau, "ocean protection is achieved through education and public awareness." 

Moreover, research can provide tangible evidence of ongoing changes. Dr. Lucy Woodall, Associate Professor of Marine Conservation Biology and Policy at the University of Exeter, clarified the link between climate change and the oceans during the webinar. "Climate change is radically transforming marine ecosystems," explains Woodall, "affecting both biodiversity and ecological processes. Understanding these dynamics is crucial to developing effective conservation strategies. Education and awareness are key tools to engage communities and promote concrete actions for the oceans." 

Arya Yurdacan, ocean conservation entrepreneur and member of the World Ocean Day Youth Advisory Council, and listed among the “20 Under 20” most inspiring entrepreneurs of 2020 by Wise, shared her experiences in inspiring advocacy for ocean sustainability, highlighting how young people can be catalysts for positive change through concrete and engaging initiatives. 

Powerful images from Greg Lecoeur, renowned wildlife and ocean photographer, showcased his impactful underwater photography and discussed how marine environmental changes manifest visually, helping to raise public awareness about the need to protect the oceans. 

The talk was an opportunity to reaffirm the joint commitment of the European Foundations Coalition for the protection of the Oceans, to bring solutions to the field, such as marine meadow restoration activities. "It is essential that we join forces globally to implement effective solutions that can reverse environmental damage and promote marine sustainability," says Annamari Arrakoski-Engardt, CEO of the John Nurminen Foundation, which hosted the event. 

"Climate change, coastal exploitation, and pollution are putting a strain on the Mediterranean's marine ecosystems," says Alessio Satta, MEDSEA’s founder and expert in climate change. "Through the MEDSEA Foundation, we are implementing practical solutions to address biodiversity loss with the campaign 'A Marine Forest to Save the Planet.'" 

"The world's seas are essential for our survival, and their health is closely linked to human well-being," says Sabine Roux de Bézieux, president of Fondation de la Mer. "Fondation de la Mer is committed to developing concrete initiatives to protect and regenerate marine ecosystems. It is crucial that all stakeholders, from governments to NGOs, collaborate to address environmental challenges and promote the sustainable use of ocean resources."