HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco
Blue Action was proud to support the 7th session of The Ocean Innovators Platform during New York Climate Week on Tuesday, September 24th. This edition gathered an impressive lineup of global leaders, all focused on advancing ocean sustainability.
The event was organized by Blue Action’s network partner, The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, in collaboration with ClimateImpact, ChangeNOW, Builders Vision, Sustainable Ocean Alliance, World Economic Forum’s 1000 Ocean Startups, Blue Action, and the Solar Impulse Foundation.
In his opening remarks, HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco underscored his Foundation’s enduring commitment to ocean protection. He highlighted that "a healthy ocean is essential to human survival, and it is time we recognize the vast opportunities it offers us."
Prince Albert emphasized that philanthropy alone cannot address the critical challenges our oceans face. Instead, he called for a rethinking of our societal and economic models to secure a sustainable future. "We have the tools, the knowledge, and the innovations," he reminded the audience. "Now, we need the collective will to bring these solutions to scale."
Following the Prince’s address, two insightful sessions featured thought leaders who explored innovative strategies and transformative changes driving the sustainable blue economy.
(i) Lukas Walton, Founder and CEO of Builders Vision, and HRH Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud (ii) George Northcott (Founders Factory/Blue Action Accelerator), Tamaisha Eytle (Future Barbados), Jeff Stoike (Blue Action)
The first session was a fireside chat between Lukas Walton, Founder and CEO of Builders Vision, and HRH Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud. Their conversation aimed to “pave the way for a regenerative blue economy,” focusing on the critical intersections of ocean health, climate action, and business. Walton stressed the importance of investing in ocean-related projects "from NGO to IPO," while Princess Reema highlighted the need to appeal to both hearts and minds, tapping into the deep emotional connection many people have with the ocean.
The second panel brought together changemakers such as Daniela V. Fernandez of Sustainable Ocean Alliance, Geoff Chapin of Carbonwave, Steven Henderson of Fleetzero, and Svanika Balasubramanian of rePurpose Global. These leaders showcased groundbreaking companies that are revolutionizing the blue economy, shedding light on the vast investment opportunities presented by the world’s oceans.
The Ocean Innovators Platform provided a powerful forum for advancing dialogue on sustainable ocean industries, underscoring the critical need for collaboration and innovation to protect our oceans for future generations.
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