Connecting Fundy to the Ocean Decade
By: Fundy Biosphere Region
If you live anywhere near the Bay of Fundy, the ocean is just part of everyday life. It shapes the landscape, supports jobs, and influences everything from weather to wildlife. At the same time, it is facing growing pressure from climate change and human activity. These considerations contributed to the development of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. Otherwise known as the Ocean Decade.
What is the Ocean Decade? 
The Ocean Decade is a global effort led by UNESCO. It serves to unite researchers, governments, and communities to improve how we understand the ocean and make better decisions about it (UNESCO, 2021).
It is not just about producing more research. The goal is to use that knowledge in ways that matter, whether that is protecting ecosystems, supporting coastal communities, or responding to climate change. You will often see it described as working toward “the science we need for the ocean we want” (UNESCO, 2021).
Notably, the approach emphasizes consideration at both international and local levels. (Ocean Week Canada, n.d.-a).
Ocean Week Canada’s Connection
This is where Ocean Week Canada comes in. Ocean week falls on the same week as World Ocean Day. The week includes educational and engaging events that aim to celebrate and bring awareness to the Ocean’s importance.(Ocean Week Canada, n.d.-b). Whether the events are educational or recreational, it cultivates a sense of shared responsibility. It also directly supports the goals of the Ocean Decade by encouraging people to get involved (Ocean Week Canada, n.d.-a).
Ocean Week Fundy’s Connection
The Fundy Hub is our region’s host for Ocean Week. We facilitate and coordinate events with other organizations throughout the Bay of Fundy. (Ocean Week Canada, n.d.-c).
The events serve to emulate the region’s values. The Bay of Fundy has distinct and unique features, from its tides to its coastal ecosystems. It establishes a sense of connection between communities and water, acting as a road map that guides local activities. The Ocean Decade might be global, but it only really works if it shows up in places like this.
Why it matters
Conceptually, the Ocean Decade can feel overwhelming. However, when broken down, the role of local communities becomes essential in connecting people to places. Ocean Week Canada, and Ocean Week Fundy in particular, offers a meaningful way for individuals to get involved. It’s less about big statements and more about small, practical actions that deepen understanding and care for the ocean, right where you are. Join us in celebrating Ocean Week 2026, taking place June 1–8.
References:
Ocean Week Canada. (n.d.-a). The UN Ocean Decade. https://oceanweekcan.ca/about/the-un-ocean-decade/
Ocean Week Canada. (n.d.-b). Ocean Week Canada. https://oceanweekcan.ca/
Ocean Week Canada. (n.d.-c). Ocean Week Fundy. https://oceanweekcan.ca/regional-hubs/ocean-week-fundy/
UNESCO. (2021). United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030). https://www.unesco.org/en/decades/ocean-decade
