Prince Albert II of Monaco led a Monégasque delegation for their participation in the Our Ocean conference, which took place in Bali, Indonesia on October 29th and 30th.
Charged with representing the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, the prince himself lead the Monégasque group attending the conference. Other participants included international leaders, companies, scientists, and not-for-profit organizations. The conference is meant to mobilize all around better ocean protection and management. The major themes of this fifth edition were climate change, the fight against plastic pollution, development of protected maritime zones, and coral reef preservation.
Visions for sustainably maintained oceans
Former U.S. secretary of state John Kerry founded the conference in 2014. At its inception, the concept was to provide a platform for building a new relationship between man and the sea. Dialogue among decisive figures in this conversation was and remains crucial to achieving progress against climate change.
During the plenary assembly dedicated to climate change, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation announced its forthcoming financial support for sea conservation and educational encouragement. In 2018, the Foundation invested 4.5 million euros and has provisioned 3.5 million euros for 2019.
A special focus on coral reefs
The International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) also organized an event during the conference. Monaco, alongside Indonesia and Australia, is the co-president of this body until 2020. Prince Albert II participated in the event, which was geared toward the future of coral reefs and sustainable economies. Other participants included Tommy Remengesau Jr., President of the Republic of Palau and Erik Solheim, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme.
Throughout the duration of the conference, Prince Albert’s delegation displayed support for the creation of Protected Marine Zones around the world. A central talking point was the proper management of these zones once created. There were notable exchanges with Mrs. Donna Bertarelli concerning the Pew Bertarelli Global Ocean Legacy. This initiative represents the creation of rather large protected zones with impressive levels of protection.
The Prince also expressed support for Phillipe Germain, the President of New Caledonia, and his ambitious protection of the Coral Sea. This grand Protected Marine Zone covers 1,3 million square kilometers and contains one-third of the planet’s most well-preserved coral reefs. President Germain promised to protect a further 200,000 to 400,000 square kilometers in this natural marine park in 2019.
More information on the Our Ocean, Our Legacy website.