Think tank for the future of coastal cities

Context

More than 65 million people—20% of the U.S. population—live in coastal cities, of which nearly 60% identify as BIPOC.

We are unprepared for rising seas and storms, and historically-disadvantaged communities are often hit first and worst.

Our safety, economies, cultures, and communities are at risk.

MISSION

Urban Ocean Lab cultivates rigorous, creative, equitable, and practical climate and ocean policy for the future of coastal cities.

VISION

Coastal cities are climate-ready — implementing rigorous and world-leading climate and ocean policy solutions, ensuring environmental justice for coastal communities, and serving as models for state and federal policy change.

what we do

Develop and analyze policy

We develop and analyze policy aimed at improving ecological health, the blue economy, and human well-being.

Disseminate ideas

We disseminate ideas by sharing tools, knowledge, and best practices, and design materials for communication & engagement.

Foster a community of practice

We foster a community of practice to scale up climate action by connecting those working toward policy change in coastal cities.

Curate a resource hub

We curate an open-access resource hub of fact sheets, case studies, toolkits, templates, memos, and more for policymakers, communities, and the general public.

Themes

Sea level rise & erosion

In the next 30 years, U.S. coastlines are expected to experience an average of one foot of sea level rise. How can cities adapt land use and prepare for this change?

Renewable energyOffshore wind and wave energy are rapidly expanding. How can cities maximize benefits and minimize negative impacts of this burgeoning sector?

Offshore renewable energy

Offshore wind and wave energy are rapidly expanding. How can cities maximize benefits and minimize negative impacts of this burgeoning sector?

Infrastructure

Coastal infrastructure is at risk due to rising seas. How can cities use green approaches to protect existing systems, and plan new construction that minimizes risk?

Community resilience

Civic engagement and community-led planning help strengthen resilience. How can we equip communities in coastal cities with tools and information to make climate-smart decisions?

Coastal ecosystems

Wetlands, seagrasses, and mangroves are important carbon sinks and storm protection. How can their restoration and expansion be accelerated?

Values

Rigorous
Grounded in research and analysis, and informed by coastal communities. Focused on solutions.

Creative
Applying principles of design to innovate effective policy. And it’s gotta look good.

Equitable
Guided by the principles and practices of social, environmental, and economic justice.

Practical
Cognizant of scientific, economic, social, and political realities, yet ambitious.

Donate

Excited about our work? Donate to support informed climate and ocean policy for coastal cities.