Blue Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Challenge

Brazil and France launched the “Blue Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Challenge” at the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC) on June 9, 2025, with the aim of dramatically scaling up ocean-focused climate action.

The Challenge’s Call and COP30

The challenge urges all countries to place the ocean at the heart of their climate plans ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30), which Brazil will host in November 2025.

Inaugural Member Countries

Alongside Brazil and France, an inaugural group of eight countries – Australia, Fiji, Kenya, Mexico, Palau, and Seychelles – has already joined the initiative. These countries have committed to including the ocean in their updated climate plans under the Paris Agreement.

Climate Plans Under the Paris Agreement

These plans represent the centerpiece of each country’s efforts to reduce emissions, limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, and build resilience. They also signify the highest level of political will under the UN Framework Convention of Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The Ocean’s Crucial Role

The Blue NDC Challenge underscores the urgent need to recognize the ocean’s central role in addressing the climate crisis as a key ally.

Support and Endorsement

The initiative is supported by Ocean Conservancy, the Ocean and Climate Platform, and the World Resources Institute through the Ocean Resilience and Climate Alliance (ORCA), and has been endorsed by WWF-Brazil.

Governments’ Commitments

Governments joining the Blue NDCs Challenge commit to stepping up efforts to reduce emissions and build resilience through ocean-based solutions, while also delivering benefits for both nature and people.