Ocean science for a healthy planet

Vision, mission & values

Building the future we imagine for our ocean

through research of excellence and the promotion of collaboration between different social actors, with ocean knowledge as an element of cohesion and backbone of a more harmonious relationship between humanity and the ocean.

The Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM) is the fourth largest research institute of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and the largest dedicated to marine research. Under the motto “Ocean Science for a Healthy Planet,” the ICM conducts frontier research and foster both knowledge and technology transfer on topics related to ocean and climate interactions, conservation and sustainable use of marine life and ecosystems, and impact mitigation of natural and anthropogenic hazards. In-depth knowledge, determined action, and coordinated management are essential to confronting these global challenges, thereby driving sustainable development of humankind.

Vision

Our vision is a biodiverse, clean, healthy, productive and safe ocean, a key component of planetary and human wellbeing.

Mission

Our mission is to generate meaningful, actionable, and inspiring knowledge about the changing ocean. We conduct excellent research to understand the ocean-related challenges and their societal impacts. We provide foundations for sustainable marine management. We lead positive societal engagement with the ocean. Last, but not least, we train future leaders in ocean science for impactful research and societal transfer.

Values

The ICM is guided by the values of scientific research of excellence useful to society, commitment to people and the environment, equality in treatment and opportunities for everyone and collaboration as a driver of quality and accessible scientific production.