Source: United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific
Bangkok, 20 October 2026
The ocean could provide up to 35% of the global emission reductions needed by 2050. Yet, turning this potential into action in Asia and the Pacific will require better access to finance, technology and technical expertise, according to a forthcoming regional report by the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).
The report, Ocean-based Climate Action in Asia and the Pacific: Status and Ways Forward, will be launched during the opening plenary of the Asia-Pacific Ocean Week 2026, taking place in Bangkok from 26 to 30 October. It examines how countries can accelerate ocean-based climate action, from restoring carbon-storing mangroves and seagrass meadows to cutting shipping emissions and expanding offshore wind power.
While countries across the region are increasingly including ocean-based climate action in their national climate plans, the report highlights the need for stronger coordination across sectors, more coherent policies and improved access to climate finance to turn these commitments into measurable results.
These findings will inform discussions at Asia-Pacific Ocean Week, bringing together senior officials, researchers and civil society representatives to identify practical solutions and strengthen regional cooperation to scale up ocean-based climate action.
Key Speakers
- Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana
Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) - H.E. François Vandeville
Ambassador of France to the Kingdom of Thailand - H.E. Filimon Manoni
Pacific Ocean Commissioner, Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner
What: Asia-Pacific Ocean Week
When: 26 – 30 October 2026
Where: UN Conference Centre, Rajdamnern Nok Avenue, 10200 Bangkok
In-person registration: https://indico.un.org/event/1024992/
Full programme: https://www.unescap.org/events/2026/asia-pacific-ocean-week
The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is the most inclusive intergovernmental platform in the Asia-Pacific region. The Commission promotes cooperation among its member States and associate members in pursuit of solutions to sustainable development challenges. ESCAP is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations.