Marine Life 2030: Forecasting Changes to Ocean Biodiversity to Inform Decision-Making: A Critical Role for the Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON)

Abstract Marine Life 2030 is a program to establish the globally coordinated system to deliver actionable, transdisciplinary knowledge of ocean life to those who need it, promoting human well-being, sustainable development, and ocean conservation (Figure 1). The diversity of marine habitats and species is fundamental for human survival. Biodiversity provides opportunities for multiple fisheries, the tourism industry, and harbor medicines and materials. The Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON) is the platform to build the community of practice to implement Marine Life 2030. MBON fosters collaborations to coordinate collection, sharing, and application of biodiversity information. Benefits of joining MBON include expanded capacity to address research goals, leveraging resources and best practices; linking natural and social sciences to answer policy questions; engaging diverse and early-career researchers; and addressing issues of concern to humanity.