World Ocean Council announces “Sustainable Ocean Summit”

The World Ocean Council (WOC), a global business leadership alliance on ocean sustainability and stewardship, is generating significant interest among companies around the world from a range of industries, including shipping, oil and gas, fisheries, aquaculture, ports, mining, insurance, finance, renewable offshore energy, marine tourism, shipbuilding, submarine cable/pipeline, dredging, marine technology and others. “Companies and industry associations from around the world are expressing significant interest in a coordinated global private sector leadership approach to ocean environmental issues”, noted WOC Executive Director Paul Holthus, adding that many companies see the business benefits and sustainable development value in the WOC-led collaborative efforts on Corporate Ocean Responsibility. The Sustainable Ocean Summit will bring together a wide range of industries that use marine space and resources around the theme of “Reducing Risk, Increasing Sustainability: Solutions through Collaboration”. The event is organized in partnership with Golder Associates. Industry leaders will identify shared ocean sustainability priorities that will form the cross sectoral collaborative programs coordinated by WOC working with and through companies committed to Corporate Ocean Responsibility. The World Ocean Council is also launching its members program for companies and industry associations who would like to become part of this unprecedented international private sector alliance on Corporate Ocean Responsibility. From January 2009 to June 2009, a select number of companies and associations will be able to become “Founding Members”. Prospective members should contact the WOC directly. Individuals may also apply for membership. See www.oceancouncil. Org for information on World Ocean Council membership and to register for the “Sustainable Ocean Summit”, or contact Paul. holthus@oceancouncil.org