This paper evaluated all of the new and updated NDCs communicated by Parties between January 2024 - November 2025, identifying references to ocean-based climate actions. The paper also analysed the alignment between ocean-based actions included in the NDCs with updated NBSAPs.
While the ocean and ocean economy are heavily impacted by climate change, they are increasingly being recognised as a powerful solutions to support climate mitigation and adaptation.
Researchers from the UNSW Centre for Sustainable Development Reform systematically assessed all (123) Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) communicated between 1 January 2024 to 19 November 2025 under the Paris Agreement, to identify how ocean-based actions are being leveraged by coastal and island countries globally.
The researchers also investigated the synergies between climate commitments (NDCs under the Paris Agreement) and biodiversity strategies (NBSAPs under the Global Biodiversity Framework). Results demonstrate significant potential for integrated policies that address both crises simultaneously.
However, major challenges remain. Most actions are communicated as policies rather than quantifiable targets. Three-quarters require international climate finance to implement.
The path forward requires: strengthening coordination between climate and biodiversity planning processes, translating policies into measurable targets, mobilising adequate finance and strengthening to climate-biodiversity nexus.
