Climate variability and change is impacting the distributions and productivity of marine species in the North Atlantic. The ocean is undergoing changes at multiple spatial and temporal scales, both naturally and because of anthropogenic pressure. However, detection of these changes often requires comprehensive analysis of ocean observations over long (e.g. decadal) time periods. Assessment of long-term patterns are critical for ocean resource management in order to predict the consequences of the changing ocean on the distribution of habitats and biodiversity.

This 4th symposium is part of a series of decadal symposiums organized by ICES and NAFO, where researchers will convene to review the variability of North Atlantic environmental conditions and marine ecosystems over the past decade. The intention is to understand the relationship between ecosystem components and how they influence the distribution, abundance and productivity of living marine resources. While the symposium focuses on reviewing the last decade, contributions related to sub-decadal forecast of ecosystem change and application of environmental data to ocean resource management are also welcome.

Reflecting on the scientific knowledge gained over the last decade will advance and shape our understanding of marine ecosystems in the North Atlantic and encourage new initiatives to improve ocean observation approaches that support the management and sustainability of marine resources. These insights will contribute to the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030), which aims to mobilize ocean stakeholders and resources worldwide behind a common framework in order to advance research and technological innovation needed to sustain a healthy and productive ocean.

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