Scientists Gather at 9th SOLAS Open Science Conference to Unveil Plan for Combatting Climate Change

PANAJI, GOA - A global assembly of scientists and experts from 20 countries has converged on the nation's western coast to tackle the pressing issue of climate change. The 9th International Surface Ocean-Lower Atmosphere Study (SOLAS) Open Science Conference (SOLAS-OSC 2024), being held in Goa for the first time, brought together experts in a quest to develop an updated science plan that spans two decades.

The conference is being held at the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), which expressed its gratitude for hosting this pivotal event. Prof. Sunil Kumar Singh, Director NIO, emphasized the significance of SOLAS in addressing global climate challenges.

"SOLAS studies the interaction between the surface ocean and lower atmosphere, which have become remarkably relevant in today's climate change context," said Prof. Singh during his welcome remarks. "This conference serves as a crucial platform for international collaboration to mitigate climate change and adopt sustainable solutions."

This year's SOLAS-OSC 2024 will focus on SOLAS 3.0 - an updated science plan addressing pressing global challenges such as ocean deoxygenation, marine carbon dioxide removal (MCDR), and the impact of warming temperatures on marine ecosystems.

During the gathering of 1,000 participants from 20 countries, scientists are set to explore ways to influence policy with their findings, shedding light on critical aspects like ocean deoxygenation, MCDR, and environmental temperature changes.

In addition to providing an international framework for exchanging scientific ideas, SOLAS-OSC aims to bridge the gaps between science and policy by integrating social sciences, economics, and law into its research. While it does not create regulations, the conference's recommendations are designed to inform and influence marine policy on critical issues such as marine pollution and climate change.

The 9th SOLAS Open Science Conference seeks to strengthen the ocean-based data collection network, enhancing global understanding of these complex interactions and shaping a future for sustainable ocean governance.