The inaugural Ocean Innovation Challenge (OIC) call for proposals launched on 6 January 2020 and closed on 5 March 2020, and received an overwhelming response of over 600 concept proposals. From this pool, eight outstanding innovators were selected and officially launched on 9 March 2021. Watch the launch video on YouTube.
Cohort 1 innovators have made a profound impact on the reduction of marine pollution, specifically addressing SDG 14.1 through policy advocacy, innovative solutions, and community engagement. Collaborative efforts between the private and public sectors, with increased involvement of local communities, have been crucial in driving meaningful change. As the pilot cohort of UNDP ocean innovators, these OIC pioneers have set a high standard, showcasing how success can be achieved by adapting innovations based on the actual needs and challenges faced on the ground.
Watch the ocean innovators in this rapid fire chat at the 2022 UN Ocean Conference
in Lisbon on how they are transforming 'business as usual' into solutions
that save the ocean, people's livelihood, and the planet.
Despite the obstacles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, their agility and willingness to collaborate with mentors have been instrumental in achieving their goals. These innovators continue to replicate and expand their efforts, leaving a legacy for ocean conservation and sustainable livelihoods in coastal communities.
Cohort 1 innovators replaced 400 tons of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam with coconut fiber, preventing 700 tons of CO2 emissions. They developed seaweed-based fertilizers scientifically proven to reduce nutrient runoff and regenerate soil. Cutting-edge research led to a methodology for identifying the manufacturing processes that contribute most to microfiber shedding. The Global Plastics Policy Inventory has been scaled up to aid decisionmaking and policy development, which is vital in the context of the ongoing Plastics Treaty negotiations, serving as valuable reference material for policymakers and stakeholders. OIC Innovators influenced policy in Costa Rica through stakeholder engagement and laid the groundwork for Extended Producer Responsibility implementation in the Maldives and SIDS. They also established a buyback center in Mohéli and calibrated wastewater treatment operations in Cape Verde, developing a replicable model for other SIDS. Read through the summary of Cohort 1's achievements.
