AquaVitae partner Urchinomics endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade

urchinomics endorsement by UN Ocean Decade

From left to right: Philip James (coordinator of AquaVitae project), Brian Tsuyoshi Takeda (CEO and Founder of Urchinomics) and sea urchins  – Photo: Nofima / Urchinomics

The United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) recently announced that Urchinomics is to be formally endorsed as an Ocean Decade action.

Urchinomics have been a key industry stakeholder in the AquaVitae project since it began in May 2019. Specifically, they are involved in the case study investigating sea urchin roe enhancement in Norway and Spain. “We are proud that our industry partner Urchinomics have been endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade. This is a testament to the importance of the work they are doing and the environmental and economic benefits of developing of sea urchin roe enhancement on the world stage,” says AquaVitae project coordinator Philip James.

Urchin barren in California, USA, by Urchinomics.
Urchin barren in California, USA. By Urchinomics. Aquavitae Case study on sea urchins.

The United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) demonstrates the conviction of UN Member States that enhanced knowledge of the ocean is a prerequisite to achieving sustainable development. They seek to create a paradigm shift in the generation of qualitative and quantitative ocean knowledge to inform the development of solutions to contribute to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Mr Julian Barbière, Coordinator of the Ocean Decade from the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO, stated that: “We’re always seeking to identify partners, initiatives and commercial ventures that aim to secure the future of the oceans, and indeed the welfare of our planet. Urchinomics’ solution for innovation in the production and processing of seafood that also supports restoration of kelp forests is very much part of the multifaceted solution we seek to identify and promote in the framework of the Ocean Decade”.

Brian Tsuyoshi Takeda, CEO and Founder of Urchinomics, was humbled by the accolade and adds that “it’s with the utmost humility that we accept the endorsement of our technology and methodology to be recognised as being part of a wider solution to protect ocean biodiversity and promote economic development. It’s a powerful validation of our ranching technology which turns a destructive species into a premium, restorative, delicious seafood that therefore helps to bring the kelp forests back to life, promoting balance in our marine ecosystems. We look forward to contributing to meeting the vision of the Ocean Decade, and inspiring other industry partners to commit to delivering ocean science solutions for sustainable development.”

A deeper insight:

– Learn more on the endorsement on Urchinmics’ homepage.
– Learn more on Urchinomics on The Industry Corner.

– Learn more on sea urchins and how to find them when diving.