SBMA strengthens science engagement through Washington meetings
The Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) continues to strengthen its science-based approach through international collaboration, with Knowledge Management Director Dr John Parianos recently attending a series of engagements in Washington, DC.
During the visit, Dr Parianos held engagements with the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), the Stimson Center, and the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF). These meetings provided opportunities for knowledge exchange and informed discussion on issues relating to seabed minerals, ocean governance, environmental science, and international policy.
Full interview here: Navigating Seabed Mining in the Cook Islands: a conversation with John Parianos
The Washington engagements formed part of SBMA’s ongoing commitment to staying connected to global discussions and ensuring that the Cook Islands remains informed by a broad range of scientific and policy perspectives as work in the seabed minerals sector continues domestically and internationally.
For SBMA, international engagements of this kind are an important part of strengthening knowledge, building relationships, and contributing to informed dialogue. They also support the Authority’s wider focus on ethical science-based decision-making, particularly as the Cook Islands continues in the exploration and research phase of the seabed minerals sector.
Dr Parianos said the meetings were a valuable opportunity to exchange perspectives and further strengthen SBMA’s understanding of the wider international conversation.
“Science engagement is an important part of our work. Meetings like these help us stay connected to current thinking, exchange knowledge with others, and continue strengthening the information base that supports our work here in the Cook Islands.”
He said it was also important to share the Cook Islands context in discussions with international institutions, including the country’s approach to ocean stewardship, its regulatory framework, and its commitment to informed and careful consideration of seabed minerals issues.
As dialogue on seabed minerals continues globally, SBMA remains committed to an approach informed by science, transparency, and responsible stewardship of the Cook Islands’ Marae Moana.