“I look forward to serving as an ambassador for this important decade for the world’s oceans, and I will continue to use every opportunity to promote enthusiasm for and understanding of the ocean in Norway,” says Marcussen.
Johanna Marcussen is a PhD candidate at the University of Agder and the Norwegian Institute of Marine Research, where she studies coastal species such as crab, flat oyster and lobster.
Earlier this autumn, Marcussen won the Researcher Grand Prix, a national science communication competition, with a presentation on how recreational fishing affects Norway’s lobster population.
Promoting ocean engagement
Norway’s UN Ocean Decade National Committee was established in 2021 to coordinate the country’s efforts during the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030). The committee is composed of representatives from key marine sectors in Norway, including research, industry, public administration, voluntary organisations, communications and the interested public. Members are appointed for two-year terms; the current term runs from 2025 to 2027.
The first meeting of the committee appointed in 2025 took place on Friday 24 October. Marcussen highlights the symbolism of the meeting coinciding with United Nations Day.
“This day marks international cooperation and shared responsibility — exactly what is needed to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals,” she says.
Relevant research
The committee has identified ten focus areas where Norway can contribute to the decade’s goals. These include climate interactions, integrated ocean governance, safe and healthy seafood, and increased ocean literacy.
Coastal research at UiA aligns with many of these areas. In Agder, researchers from UiA and the Institute of Marine Research have worked on marine topics for decades, studying everything from kelp forests to cod, eel, seagrass meadows and coastal ecosystems.
“This research forms the very foundation of knowledge-based coastal management — so that our children and grandchildren can continue to enjoy traditional Norwegian Christmas cod, go lobster fishing, eat oysters and breathe clean sea air,” says Marcussen.