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Titled “The Future of the Workforce in a Sustainable Ocean Economy,” the paper examines the evolving landscape of ocean-based employment across multiple sectors and provides guidance for how stakeholders can build a workforce that is resilient, inclusive, and aligned with environmental and social goals.
The analysis draws on the best available data and research, complemented by extensive consultation with global experts. It estimates that the sustainable ocean economy could support up to 184 million jobs by 2050—an increase of 51 million jobs, or 1.5% growth per year from 2019 levels.
The authors highlight that the current formal ocean economy employs at least 133 million people globally, but this figure likely underrepresents the full scope of ocean-based livelihoods. For example, including subsistence and small-scale fishing could add up to 100 million additional workers, underscoring the need for improved data and visibility for often-overlooked sectors.
Watch the report video:
