This Position Paper is the result of the work of the European Marine Board Working Group on Navigating the Future VI. See Annex 1 for the list of Working Group Members and affiliations.
The Navigating the Future publication series produced by the European Marine Board provides foresight on priorities for marine science and policy. Each edition builds on the messages of previous publications, taking the next steps in helping us to understand and manage the Ocean, learn how to use its resources sustainably, and keep benefiting from the services it provides.
Navigating the Future VI complements previous editions of Navigating the Future by considering the role of the Ocean in the wider Earth system, in relation to people (Chapter 2), climate (Chapter 3), fresh water (Chapter 4) and biodiversity (Chapter 5). Chapter 2 on the Ocean and People explores the different types of connections that exist between people and the Ocean, and how we need to reconsider these interactions to move towards sustainability and equity. Chapter 3 on the Ocean and Climate discusses both how the Ocean is being affected by climate change and its role in helping to address it. Chapter 4 on the Ocean and Fresh Water presents the complex interfaces between salt water, fresh water, and ice, as well as the Ocean and land, to demonstrate how challenges in one area also affect others, meaning  they must be addressed together. Chapter 5 on the Ocean and Biodiversity highlights the critical role of biodiversity in the provision of ecosystem services to humans, and hence the need to take steps to further protect it. The document closes by considering how marine science itself should evolve and highlights how overarching aspects such as understanding and managing Ocean stressors, considering our Ocean governance structures, and exploring Ocean finance are vital to help us protect our Ocean (Chapter 6).
EMB acknowledges that while the Working Group members who contributed to the document and its recommendations represent different European geographical location (see Annex 1), professional  backgrounds, and career levels, their views do not represent all forms of diversity. This document has a European focus, but its messages and recommendations are relevant to stakeholders globally.