This side event is a collaborative effort between the University of Edinburgh – Nippon Foundation Ocean Voices Programme, High Seas Alliance, FutureFaith, Turtle Village Trust and the Government of Fiji. It will explore the multiple, layered and intersecting values that are central to how societies interact and care for marine ecosystems and species.

A thematic side event examining alternative economic models that prioritize ocean health and community wellbeing over endless growth.

Explore how Catholicism and Islam—representing over 3 billion people globally—approach ocean conservation through their transformative environmental frameworks. Through intimate personal narratives and theological insights, speakers will illuminate how Pope Francis's Laudato Si movement has mobilized Catholic communities, while Islamic scholars apply Qur'anic concepts of balance (Al mizan) and trusteeship (khalifa) to establish marine protected areas and transform fishing practices.

This dialogue session reveals practical applications of integral ecology and sacred stewardship, demonstrating how these two major faith traditions are translating ancient wisdom into urgent ocean action. Participants will discover resources for implementing these approaches in their own communities, fostering interfaith collaboration for marine protection that honors both scientific urgency and spiritual depth. Co-hosted with the Islamic Foundation for Ecology and Environmental Science (IFEES), The Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace, and the Ummah for Earth Alliance.

Discover the extraordinary power of faith communities as catalysts for marine conservation worldwide. This landmark session unveils the flagship report "Sacred Oceans, Shared Responsibility: Faith-Based Approaches to Ocean Action," showcasing eleven transformative stories of ocean action.  Learn how religious institutions leveraging their moral authority, vast networks, and US$5 trillion in collective assets are achieving conservation outcomes that purely technical approaches rarely attain. Co-hosted with the Catholic Youth Network for Environmental Sustainability in Africa, Anglican Communion, Soka Gakkai International, and the Islamic Foundation for Ecology and Environmental Science (IFEES).

Join us for the formal launch of Turning the Tide: A Multi-faith Declaration for the Ocean. The event will feature high-level faith leaders from around the world, highlighting the moral need for ocean conservation, and showcasing practical ways faith groups are leading on ocean action.