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The Ocean by Sturla Henriksen is a compelling exploration of the ocean's profound influence on human history, contemporary society, and the critical role it plays in addressing existential challenges. Henriksen, a former CEO of the Norwegian Shipowners' Association and current Special Advisor to the UN – as well as a passionate diver – presents a comprehensive and authoritative analysis of the ocean's impact on geopolitics, climate, biodiversity, and the potential for a sustainable future.
Through a holistic lens, the book navigates readers through the historical implications of naval powers, the paradoxical relationship between the ocean's abundance and its inadequate management, and the intricate connections between the ocean and the global ecosystem. From the depths of the sea to geopolitical tensions in strategic maritime locations, The Ocean addresses the complexities of our relationship with the ocean. It challenges fragmented perspectives, emphasizing the need for a holistic understanding to tackle the intricate interplay of environmental, economic, and geopolitical factors. This book will serve as an essential guide for policymakers, environmentalists, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of our planet's most significant common resource.
Sturla Henriksen, a Special Advisor on Ocean issues to the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) since January 2018, directs UNGC's global projects involving corporations, research institutions, and governments. With a background as Director and Partner at Astrup Fearnley Asset Management AS and former CEO of the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association, Sturla brings extensive experience to his role. A graduate of the University of Oslo, he holds key board positions, including at the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) and the Arctic University of Norway's Executive Ocean Leadership Program Advisory Board. Beyond his professional endeavours, Sturla is a passionate scuba diver, adding a personal touch to his commitment to global ocean sustainability.
"If you have ever wondered, 'Why is the Ocean [...] ' from scientific, historical, geopolitical, societal, legal, economic, and cultural perspectives, this is the book you want to read"
– Hiroko Muraki Gottlieb, Representative for the Ocean and Head of Delegation to the High Seas Treaty negotiations, and Associate, Harvard University
"Sturla's enthusiasm for the ocean is contagious. A potent reminder that more is possible"
– Robert Blasiak, Associate Professor, Stockholm Resilience Center
"A must read for anyone who wants to understand why we should finally care about our Ocean, the core engine for life on our planet"
– Vincent Doumeizel, author of The Seaweed Revolution
"The ocean connects us, it feeds us and it promises both opportunities and risks"
– General Eirik Kristoffersen, Chief of Defense, Norway
"A timely and enlightening guide to understanding the critical role oceans will play in shaping our world"
– Ulf Sverdrup, professor at the Norwegian Business School (BI), and former Director of the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI)
"This book is a masterful review of the environmental, geopolitical and economic forces shaped by the world's oceans – past, present and future"
– Elana Wilson Rowe, Research Professor, Norwegian Institute of International Affairs and Associate Professor at the Norwegian University of the Life Sciences
"This captivating and very readable book offer a treasure trove of information in describing the critical importance of the world's oceans"
– Esben Poulsson, Immediate past Chairman, The International Chamber of Shipping
"Sturla Henriksen brings unparalleled experience and exceptional insight to bear in this holistic story of how the ocean has formed our world and will shape our destiny"
– Svein Ringbakken, CEO, The Norwegian Shipowners' Mutual War Risks Insurance Association
"I found how it wove personal accounts and storytelling with facts very compelling [...] easily digestible so I think the book has accomplished the goal of improving ocean literacy"
– Lynn Loo, Professor, Princeton University, USA, and CEO, Global Center for Maritime Decarbonization, Singapore
"Sturla Henriksen has produced a remarkable study of the state of our oceans. Partly personal reflection, partly academic analysis, the book speaks to the heart as well as the brain"
– Alf Håkon Hoel, Professor, UiT The Arctic University of Norway
"It highlights our deep connection to the ocean, and the importance and vast opportunities the ocean represents when managed responsibly for future generations"
– Thomas Wilhelmsen, group CEO and fifth generation shareholder of the Wilhelmsen group
"The book gives a unique insight in the wonders of the Ocean and why we should care about it"
– Jan-Gunnar Winther, Pro-rector research and development, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, and former Director of the Norwegian Polar Institute
"A must-read for anyone interested in a sustainable ocean economy"
– Rolf Thore Roppestad, CEO, Gard
"We originate from the ocean, we depend on it and global leaders will have to urgently create a new sustainable alliance with the ocean. There could be no better guide for this journey than Sturla Henriksen"
– Lise Kingo, former CEO and Executive Director of United Nations Global Compact
"The anecdotes and topics really get under your skin [...] a remarkable and timely book"
– Thor Jørgen Guttormsen, former CEO of Høegh Autoliners and Høegh LNG
"Sturla offers an ultimate reflection on how we can harmonize with this vital force to ensure a sustainable future"
– Dr. Kilparti Ramakrishna, Director of Marine Policy Center and Senior Advisor to the President on Ocean and Climate Policy
"The Ocean teaches us that we need to be more humane and considerably less selfish to secure our common future"
– Vladimir Ryabinin, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO
