The Oceans Turn?

The ocean covers 71% over the earth’s surface, far, far greater than any land mass. Directly or indirectly, it touches every piece of life on earth and every aspect of human society. The ocean feeds nations, transports goods, and provides energy across the globe.

The Fletcher School at Tufts University convened an important conference on September 28, 2018 entitled "The Ocean’s Turn?" With this one-day event, we looked at the role of the ocean as an avenue, an arena, and a source, and examined it all through the lenses of geopolitics, sustainability, and an overarching notion of innovation.

The conference brought together thought leaders from around the globe and examined the critical issues facing the world’s oceans today. Through engaging keynotes, TED-style talks, and panel discussions, we explored the maritime sphere from the perspectives of science, business, law and politics, investment and the economy, security, and international relations.

The purpose of the conference was to evaluate important maritime sectors, such as global shipping, the food industry, and the energy sector, and dove deep into geopolitics, BlueTech, maritime security and policy, environmental imperatives, and other vital issues. Major themes included technology and innovation of a "connected ocean," geopolitical and transnational legal factors, and imperatives driven by sustainability needs, concerns, and opportunities.

Thank you to all who made The Ocean's Turn? a success! Stay tuned for more from this exciting and timely conference.