AUTHENTIC x UNESCO: Bringing the Ocean Decade Into the MICE Conversation

The United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), known as the Ocean Decade, is a global call to action led by UNESCO. Its mission is to mobilize knowledge, innovation, and collaboration to secure the future of our oceans.

For the MICE industry, this is more than an environmental initiative. It is an opportunity to align events with one of the most important global movements of our time. Meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions can strengthen the reach of the Ocean Decade by using our platforms, audiences, and destinations to inspire awareness and action.

Why It Matters to Planners

The MICE sector brings people together from across industries, cultures, and continents. We decide where they gather, what they experience, and the stories they take home. By incorporating Ocean Decade themes and partnerships into programs, planners can:

• Integrate science-based conservation projects into incentive travel and conference agendas

• Build relationships with local communities and organizations involved in marine protection

• Create legacy projects that have a lasting positive impact on host destinations

What the Ocean Decade Is Doing

UNESCO and its partners are addressing priorities such as restoring marine ecosystems, reducing ocean pollution, mapping the ocean floor, and blending Indigenous knowledge with modern science. These initiatives need visibility, resources, and networks. Our industry is in a position to provide all three.

The AUTHENTIC Connection

AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives® works closely with cruise lines, coastal venues, and island destinations, all of which depend on healthy oceans. Our role is to connect MICE partners with opportunities to support and showcase ocean stewardship in ways that are meaningful and measurable. Whether through incentive itineraries that include marine conservation or conferences aligned with UNESCO-led projects, we help bring these initiatives to life within the MICE space.

A Next Step for the Industry

The Ocean Decade runs until 2030, offering a clear timeline for the MICE industry to get involved. By embedding its goals into event planning and delivery, we can help ensure the ocean’s future is part of the global conversation we create.

Learn more at oceandecade.org

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AUTHENTIC x UNESCO

Turn travel into a force for good. Discover how you or your organization can champion UNESCO’s mission through partnership, expertise, advocacy, or direct support.