‘Norway is the nation in the world with the highest density of marine scientists, and this prize is important because it confirms that knowledge and research are key to sustainable marine management,’ says Ole Arve Misund, General Director of the National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research (NIFES).
The world needs more marine food
The UN has stipulated in sustainable development goal number 14 that the ocean and the marine resources are to be managed in a sustainable manner. At the same time, goals number one and two aim to eradicate poverty and hunger in the world.
‘The world needs more food. The UN has repeatedly recognised the importance of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture in securing enough food for the world’s growing population. Ocean science ensures that fisheries and aquaculture are managed in an efficient and sustainable manner. The Norwegian government has invested heavily in ocean science, and this prize shows that its efforts don’t go unnoticed internationally,’ says Minister of Fisheries Per Sandberg.
The prize is awarded by UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), which is the UN coordination unit for ocean observations, ocean science, and exchange of ocean data and services. The prize was awarded by Director General of UNESCO Irina Bokova.
‘I’m proud to accept this prize on behalf of Norway and our ocean science communities,’ says Director General of NIFES Ole Arve Misund.