Webinar: Introduction to Ocean Accounts

The Belmont Forum is hosting a training webinar series for research consortia preparing proposals for the Ocean 2 Collaborative Research Action (CRA). The event is also open to the broader Belmont Forum community of practice, including members, partners, academia, and social actors.

Effective management of ocean resources requires integrated information systems. This webinar introduces the methodology designed to structure and use that information: Ocean Accounts.

 

Ocean Accounts functions as an integrated information system. They organize social, economic, and environmental data to measure progress toward the sustainable development of the ocean, offering a metric that moves Beyond GDP.

 

This session, led by Dr. Phil James (Global Ocean Accounts Partnership – GOAP), provides a foundational understanding of the Ocean Accounts framework. Upcoming sessions include the Environment Domain (10th December), the Economic Domain (21st January), and the Social Accounts (26th February).

 

Framework Components

Understanding the four core components of the Ocean Accounts framework supports the development of comprehensive and effective research proposals:

  • Ecosystem Accounts: Measures the extent, condition, services, and value of marine ecosystems (e.g., condition of a coral reef).
  • Environmental-Economic Accounts: Details assets, financial flows, wastes, and expenditures related to the ocean environment.
  • Macro-economic Accounts: Accounts for ocean-related income, welfare, and economic production.
  • Structured Data: Integrates information on governance, technology, and ocean beneficiaries.

Utilizing this framework enables researchers to design projects that facilitate evidence-based decision-making and improve monitoring of ocean policy outcomes.

 

Who Should Attend

This event is relevant for two groups:

  • Ocean 2 CRA Applicants: This training is recommended for all consortia drafting proposals for the Ocean 2 CRA. Knowledge of accounting principles can strengthen proposal structure and impact assessment.
  • BF Community: Members, partners, academia, and social actors interested in integrated approaches to ocean sustainability and accounting are invited to participate.

Webinar Details