Ambitious Ocean Pact to Revive Coastal Ecosystems and Maritime Resilience Announced at UNOC3
By Blue Economy Insights
(This story is a follow-on from a previous BEI article)
At the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a sweeping new pact aimed at reviving and protecting the continent’s marine ecosystems. With bold targets and significant funding, the initiative reflects Europe’s growing commitment to safeguarding ocean health while supporting the communities and industries that depend on it.
Restoring the Ocean by 2030
The core objective of the European Ocean Pact is to bring 20% of Europe’s degraded marine ecosystems back to life by the year 2030. This includes targeted efforts to restore natural habitats, strengthen climate resilience along coastal zones, and rebuild biodiversity that has suffered from overuse and pollution.
“We will strive to cut plastic and nutrient pollution by half within five years,” von der Leyen stated. “We will restore natural habitats and shelter our coasts more effectively from the impact of climate change.”
A Legislative Backbone for Marine Recovery
Formally adopted by the European Commission the week prior to the UN conference, the pact sets the stage for major regulatory updates. The Commission plans to revise key European laws related to maritime zones, aligning legal frameworks with urgent restoration and protection goals. Legislation supporting these measures is expected to be proposed by 2027.
In parallel, the strategy will provide technical and policy support to EU member states, enabling coordinated and science-based implementation at the local level.
Supporting Small-Scale Fishers and Blue Economy Innovation
The pact also recognizes the growing pressures facing Europe’s fishing communities. “Our fishers work tirelessly to feed us, day and night, in all conditions,” said von der Leyen. “Yet extreme weather and unfair competition are pushing too many of them out of business.”
To address these challenges, the Commission pledged new grant programs to support small-scale fisheries and announced plans to boost the competitiveness of the maritime sector through a new industrial strategy and an updated vision for EU ports.
€1 Billion for Global Ocean Solutions
In a move that extends beyond Europe’s borders, von der Leyen committed €1 billion to fund 50 ocean-related projects around the world. One-third of this funding will go directly to scientific research and conservation initiatives, aiming to foster global collaboration in ocean protection and climate adaptation.
Looking Ahead
As global ocean health continues to decline and the economic stakes rise for coastal communities, the EU’s Ocean Pact marks a significant step toward regenerative policy action. By combining ecological restoration with economic support and legislative reform, the strategy offers a model that other regions may look to emulate.
The coming years will reveal how effectively Europe can translate this high-level vision into meaningful results for its marine ecosystems, fishing communities, and maritime industries.
