The IOC – Ocean Best Practices System (OBPS) has taken a significant step forward in strengthening the global landscape in ocean practices with the reconstitution of the Steering Group (SG). This step follows a landmark decision at the 33rd Session of the IOC Assembly, where OBPS was formally established as an IOC-wide system. The transition marked the evolution of OBPS from a project into a core IOC function, recognizing the central role of best practices in advancing ocean knowledge and sustainable ocean management.
As an IOC system, OBPS now serves as a unifying platform across IOC programmes and Regional sub-commissions, including the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS), the International Oceanographic Data and Information Exchange (IODE), reinforcing OBPS as a cornerstone of international ocean cooperation. It supports the creation, development, and dissemination of ocean best practices across the full value chain, from observations and data management to policy and capacity development.
The newly proposed OBPS Steering Group brings together 16 members representing a balance of expertise, geographic diversity, and institutional perspectives.
The reconstituted SG brings together both continuity and new expertise. Returning members include representatives from IOC programmes and regional sub-commissions, partner organizations, and the IOC Secretariat: Lotta Fyrberg (IOC Secretariat/IODE), Arno Lambert (IOC Secretariat/IODE), Emma Heslop (IOC Secretariat/GOOS), Katherina Schoo (IOC Secretariat/OSS), Lorna Innis (IOCARIBE), Virginie Van Dongen-Vogels (Australian Institute of Marine Science), Frank Muller-Karger (University of South Florida), and Patricia Martin Cabrera (OBPS Manager).
Among the invited experts are specialists spanning physical and biological oceanography, data science, marine policy, and ecosystem management, including: Sonia Recalde (INOCAR, Ecuador), with expertise in operational ocean observing and naval data systems; Justin Buck (NOC, United Kingdom), contributing experience in artificial intelligence and OBPS strategy; Dominique Lefevre (CNRS, France), specializing in biological observations and digital ocean applications; Filipe Mora Porteiro (OKEANOS, Portugal), focusing on marine spatial planning and policy; Aina LeDon Nomenisoa (National Oceanographic Data Center, Madagascar), bringing strong IOC data experience; Naomi Harada (Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, Japan), with expertise in biogeochemistry and ocean observing systems; and Erika Meerhoff (Clemente Estable Biological Research Institute, Uruguay), contributing ecological and early-career perspectives.
Experienced members will support the ongoing implementation of the IOC-OBPS, while new members bring emerging expertise and regional insights to guide its future direction. Their work will focus on advancing IOC-OBPS as a truly global, inclusive, and interoperable system. As OBPS continues to grow, IOC invites all Member States to engage actively in shaping this shared resource for the ocean community.
READ MORE: https://www.ioc.unesco.org/en/articles/ioc-strengthens-global-ocean-best-practices
