### to a lasting future for our oceans: reflections following the United Nations Conference
The recent United Nations Conference on the Ocean, held in Nice, brought together researchers, political leaders and environmental defenders around a crucial subject: preservation of oceans and the need to ensure a lasting future for these vital ecosystems. In a context where scientific research is faced with political and economic pressures, it is imperative to examine the recommendations issued by the scientific community and their implications.
#### The urgency to act
Scientists have delivered an action framework aimed at concentrating efforts on ocean protection while promoting sustainable exploitation. Among the ten key recommendations, the call to “suspend harmful activities in the deep ocean” stands out. This request highlights the need to prioritize research and increase knowledge of marine ecosystems before pursuing potentially destructive industrial activities.
This concern is all the more crucial in the light of the concerns raised by the current policy of the American management, which, according to many experts, has withdrawn essential funds for oceanic research. The budget cuts imposed by the Trump administration, combined with the acceleration of the mining of the great seabed, represent a significant challenge for the scientific community which militates for a cautious and informed approach in political decisions.
### The impacts of political decisions on scientific research
It is important to recognize that political decisions have direct consequences for scientific research. In the case of oceans, the decrease in public funding for marine science limits not only the capacity of researchers to carry out their work, but also compromises the transmission of essential knowledge for the sustainable management of ocean resources. The question then arises: how can governments balance economic development and environmental sustainability?
The work of researchers, often carried out on a large scale and in the long term, is essential to anticipate the effects of environmental changes, such as the whitening of coral reefs, which affected 84 % of world reefs during an unprecedented recent event. The ability to monitor and respond to these issues requires robust and supported investments, which must be taken into account by decision -makers.
#### to a sustainable exploitation
In this context, the promotion of sustainable exploitation of ocean resources appears not only as an ecological necessity, but also as a long -term economic opportunity. Many solutions are starting to emerge, in particular responsible fishing practices and the establishment of protected sea areas. These aim to restore marine habitats while offering coastal communities sustainable economic alternatives.
The commitment of scientists and local actors, in concert with the political authorities, constitutes a fundamental lever for the implementation of such solutions. Open communication and international cooperation, essential in the management of maritime resources, will also have to be strengthened to effectively address global challenges.
### conclusion: a call for reflection
While the Nice conference has shed light on the complexities surrounding the safeguard of the oceans, it also raises profound questions about our collective responsibility in the face of these vital resources. How can we articulate our economic interests with the needs of the planet? What place do we grant research within our political priorities?
The answers to these questions will require time, a continuous dialogue and a significant commitment of all stakeholders. The recommendations made in Nice are a first step, but they must not remain a dead letter. They must serve as a catalyst for in -depth reflection and concrete actions. The need to restore the credibility of science in the development of public policies is a requirement that is imposed on everyone, for the good of the oceans and humanity.