Duke Today featured the work of Duke researchers who are studying ocean solutions critical for long-term ecological health and community stewardship. “Research is important to understand our current ocean state,” said Stephanie Rousso, managing director of Oceans@Duke. “It’s important to build ocean ecosystems and communities that are more resilient to climate change.” 

The Office of the Provost has awarded Intellectual Community Planning Grants to 10 projects from Duke faculty members based in eight schools, along with faculty colleagues at UNC-Chapel Hill, NC Central and NC State. Nicholas Institute expert John Virdin is a core team member of a project that will lay the groundwork for sustained Duke leadership in marine carbon dioxide removal, advancing both fundamental knowledge and actionable solutions to support global climate goals.

A new initiative—led by Lancaster University and funded by Lloyd’s Register Foundation—will create the first corporate‑focused reporting and accountability toolkit designed specifically for ocean‑related sectors. The project will help corporations improve safety, protect workers and strengthen their social and environmental impact.

Nicholas Institute expert John Virdin is working on the project with colleagues from Lancaster University and the Stockholm Resilience Centre.

Held March 23–27, Oceans Week at Duke featured the Blue Economy Summit alongside a series of events focused on ocean and climate solutions—key priorities within the Duke Climate Commitment. From new financial models for coastal protection to emerging blue technologies, the week underscored how ocean research is being translated into scalable, real-world impact for sustainability in the blue economy.

Discover highlights from FY 2025 in this digital report. Covering July 2024 to June 2025, the report features actionable research, engagement with decision‑makers on emerging issues and hands‑on learning experiences that equip Duke students to lead.

A Fuqua Insights article highlights findings from an international group of researchers—including John Virdin and several other Duke scholars—who studied the marine impacts disclosures of 75 of the largest companies in the ocean economy. 

Oceans Week at Duke University, held March 24-28, celebrated Duke’s leadership in ocean sustainability and explored how institutions like Duke can source local, regional and sustainable seafood to reduce carbon footprints and support coastal communities.

Duke Today features a quote from Sylvia Earle's keynote speech at the student-organized Summit for Ocean Stewards on Sept. 13 (supported in part by the Nicholas Institute). Earle, who graduated from Duke in 1956 and earned her Ph.D. here in 1966, is a renowned marine biologist, oceanographer and activist.
 

Are you a Duke University alum with plans (or potential plans) to attend Climate Week NYC (September 22-29) or the UNFCCC’s Conference of Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan (November 11-22)? Duke University experts will again take part in these important convenings alongside climate thought leaders and decision-makers from across the world—and we are eager to connect with Duke alumni who will also be joining.

The new Office of Climate and Sustainability brings together several of Duke University's climate, energy, and environmental assets—including the Nicholas Institute—to help advance the mission of the Duke Climate Commitment.

Over $36 million in initial gifts will launch the Duke Climate Commitment, a new university-wide initiative focused on addressing climate change.

The Duke Climate Commitment will be formally announced on Sept. 29 and builds on the university’s longstanding leadership in climate, energy and sustainability to educate a new generation of climate-fluent innovators and create equitable solutions for all.

On World Oceans Day, Ignace Beguin Billecocq and Tibor Vegh write about what the private sector can do to improve coastal resilience.

Duke University experts will share insights about international climate policy with university students across the nation in a free virtual seminar series funded by the U.S. Department of State. The series is also open to the Duke community, including students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

Duke Today took a look at new opportunities emerging around the university for Duke scholars and students to have a greater climate impact—with more on the way.