The Launching Ceremony of the New Initiative “Back to Blue” at the World Ocean Summit

Video Message

Lord Deighton, and participants of the World Ocean Summit Virtual Week.

The Mother Ocean that covers 70 % of the earth’s surface is silently crying out. I am able to understand how profound this outcry is. I wonder if you, the participants of this event, can hear it too.

We are very much aware of the land-based problems that occur around us. Great efforts are being made towards their solutions, aided by large amounts of available information.

However, when it comes to understanding the multifaceted problems of the ocean that, I repeat, covers 70% of the earth surface, I believe that our understanding is still very poor. This is already a threat to the human security for every individual on this planet.

I am, and have been very concerned whether, if left unattended, mankind would be able to survive for the next 500 to 1000 years into the future.

For 30 years, I have undertaken various initiatives, with the belief that there will be no survival for mankind without sustainable environmental conservation of the ocean. The diverse initiatives include such areas as nurturing 1500 ocean professionals from 150 countries, building probably the world’s largest network of ocean research institutes and scientists, engaging in research and taking action with governments to better manage marine litter and marine resources, and collaborating with international organizations and governments towards securing stable order of the oceans, subject to compliance with the law of the sea.

I am delighted to announce that we, The Nippon Foundation, a long-time contributor toward a sustainable ocean, and The Economist, a trusted media company with a vast global network, unique perspectives, and analytical expertise are launching the “Back to Blue Initiative.” The Economist and The Nippon Foundation sponsored a collaborative webinar series “The Blue Recovery” last July. It was then, that I felt the immense potential that two organizations can have in creating real positive change towards a sustainable ocean.

Now is the time. Let us collaborate in thought and in action, to tackle the multifaceted ocean issues for our future.

And now is the time. Let us bring the blue ocean back to pass it on to the next 1000 years. Thank you.

*This video message is available at The Nippon Foundation YouTube.