The “One Ocean Science Congress” opened this Tuesday, June 3, in Nice, ahead of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference. Over four days, 2,000 researchers from around the world are gathered to assess the health of the oceans and propose recommendations.
Nice will host, from June 9 to 13, 2025, the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference. More than 15,000 participants are expected: heads of state, researchers, NGO representatives, and institutions. The objective is clear: to accelerate actions in favor of ocean protection.
Prior to this summit, this Tuesday, an important scientific segment started with the beginning of the “One Ocean Science Congress.” This congress, organized until June 6, brings together 2,000 researchers from five continents.
Christian Estrosi opened the sessions by emphasizing the essential role of scientists in addressing marine imbalances. “What is starting today in Nice is exceptional,” he stated. “It is the first time that a scientific summit, a forum on blue economy and finance, a Coalition of local leaders, and an international conference between states will take place simultaneously in the same location.“
In light of the climate crisis, the scientific community has been warning for years. Ocean acidification, rising water temperatures, biodiversity loss, and plastic pollution will be central to the discussions. The exchanges at the Congress aim to produce clear, evidence-based recommendations.
The Mayor of Nice stressed the importance of these contributions: “Your debates are crucial because they clearly delineate the boundary between scientific truth, the one that is consensual, and the rest.”
Towards a New Cooperation Between Science and Local Politics
Beyond the global summit, this event is also an opportunity to strengthen the ties between researchers and local authorities.
Christian Estrosi reiterated his desire to integrate the voice of scientists in local decisions. He cited the example of the local High Council for Climate and Biodiversity, established in Nice, as a political decision-making tool.
He also mentioned the creation of a Coalition of coastal cities and regions. This body, which will meet for the first time the following Saturday, will be chaired by the Mayor of Nice. Its goal: to promote multilateralism among territories where mayors and local officials can act together on an international scale.
“I am but a mayor. One mayor among many. And I speak the language of mayors. The language of the field,” he explained. “We need facts. We need guidance. We need you.“
Christian Estrosi concluded his speech by calling on the scientific community to appoint a representative to this Coalition. A way, in his view, to ensure that local commitments are based on verified data.
The simultaneous holding of these different entities in Nice marks a commitment to connecting scientific research, international diplomacy, and field action. A dynamic the city intends to continue beyond the event.
In the coming days, the scientists will discuss diagnostics and solutions. Their recommendations will be incorporated into the work of the United Nations Conference.
Attention will then turn to the states and leaders, to see if they will translate these warnings and findings into concrete actions.
