The Ocean Decade Blue Catalyst – (bLYSs)

Our goals

The Ocean Decade Blue Catalyst (bLYSs) aims to ignite a global wave of Ocean Literacy (OL) by 2030, empowering both Arctic and non-Arctic communities to take informed action toward a healthier planet. Anchored in the UN Ocean Decade’s mission of “Achieving the Ocean We Want by 2030,” bLYSs is committed to advancing Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), and 14 (Life Below Water).

Building on the foundation of the Ocean Incubator Network Project (UArctic 580512124), bLYSs extends the UN Ocean Decade’s reach into the Circumpolar North and beyond—bridging knowledge gaps and sparking inclusive, transformative change.

In addition to its primary goal, the project also seeks to strengthen collaborations within the University of the Arctic (UArctic) network and beyond. By promoting a holistic, integrated approach to Planetary and Circumpolar Health through Ocean Literacy, bLYSs supports a more resilient, educated, and sustainable future for all.

A continuation of The Ocean Incubator Network

From 2023 to 2025, The Ocean Incubator Network successfully brought together experts, local authorities, and educational institutions across the University of the Arctic (UArctic) to co-develop integrated research and education programs. With a strong focus on accelerating Ocean Literacy (OL), the project played a key role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals—specifically SDG 4 (Quality Education and Lifelong Learning for All), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 14 (Life Below Water)—within Arctic communities.

The initiative fostered new partnerships and empowered communities through knowledge sharing, curriculum development, and collaborative research, strengthening the foundation for long-term engagement with ocean and environmental issues in the region.

Building on this momentum, the Ocean Decade Blue Catalyst (bLYSs) project now continues and expands this mission. By extending the reach of Ocean Literacy beyond the Arctic, bLYSs aims to integrate these learnings into broader global and Circumpolar contexts, while deepening collaboration across UArctic partners and beyond.