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.” 

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.

Researchers, entrepreneurs, investors and students gathered at Duke University for a workshop focused on a central challenge in climate technology: moving climate ideas out of the lab and into the real world at speed and scale.

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.

Seaze speaks with Stephanie J. Rousso, managing director of Oceans@Duke and PhD candidate, about her innovative project Pesca Blue. The conversation explores Rousso's current work in sustainable fishing practices, certification processes, and community engagement, as well as the challenges of bycatch reporting, the importance of empowering local fishing communities, and the need for a sustainable seafood market in Mexico. Rousso shares her vision for the future of Pesca Blue and the collaborative efforts at Duke University to promote ocean conservation.