Making waves plastic-free: Norway’s support for a sustainable ocean

We cannot have healthy people and a healthy planet without a healthy ocean.

The health and productivity of our ocean is vital to the livelihoods, food security and wellbeing of billions of people. As highlighted by the High-level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy, co-chaired by Norway and Palau: ...if sustainably managed, the ocean could produce six times more food globally, generate 40 times more renewable energy than currently, contribute up to 35 % of the necessary greenhouse gas emissions reductions needed by 2050, help lift millions of people out of poverty, and increase economic and environmental resilience. The pressures are intense, but recovery is possible.

This report provides a short overview of the projects Norway has supported and lessons learned in the area of marine litter and microplastics during the
programme period. Using examples of hands-on projects, the report offers insight into challenges the world is facing as well as new opportunities that are emerging. The report also presents other Norwegian support to ocean-related development assistance in 2023.