University of Hawaiʻi Launches Center for Ocean Policy
The new center bridges scientific research and legal expertise to address climate change and biodiversity loss.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Environmental
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The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa has launched the Center for Ocean Policy to integrate ocean science with legal strategies. This new initiative aims to develop actionable solutions for regional environmental challenges.
Why it matters
The center was created to bridge ocean science and legal expertise for developing solutions to climate change and biodiversity loss. By combining these fields, it aims to provide meaningful policy research and advocacy for the region.
The center operates through a collaboration between the Department of Oceanography and the William S. Richardson School of Law. It utilizes interdisciplinary clinics and capstone projects to facilitate its research initiatives.
The players
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
This public research university serves as the primary academic institution in the state and home to the new center.
Healy Foundation
This organization has provided ongoing funding for research assistants and fellows at the university since 2020.
William S. Richardson School of Law
This law school is part of the University of Hawaiʻi system and collaborates with the Department of Oceanography on this initiative.
The details
The newly established Law-Ocean Clinic pairs law and oceanography students with nonprofit organizations to conduct research and advocacy during the Hawaiʻi legislative session. The program will also offer interdisciplinary seminars to further its academic mission.
Timeline
2020: The Healy Foundation began partnering with the university.
2024: The fellowship program expanded to include three Climate Change Fellows.
October 26, 2026: The university announced the formal launch of the center.
Second year: The center plans to launch an annual symposium.
The Big Picture
The launch of the Center for Ocean Policy marks a formal evolution in how academic institutions integrate advocacy into scientific research models. This expansion beyond traditional studies into direct legislative support highlights a paradigm shift toward applied, solution-oriented environmental law.
The center's focus on legislative advocacy during the Hawaiʻi session could lead to new policy frameworks for coastal protection and biodiversity conservation. These legislative developments may influence future local environmental regulations and resource management strategies.
The takeaway
This partnership demonstrates the effectiveness of combining legal and scientific expertise to address complex climate issues. Students and local nonprofits can look for increased opportunities to engage in policy-focused advocacy through the new clinic.
What happens next
The Center for Ocean Policy is scheduled to host its inaugural annual symposium beginning in its second year of operation.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest regional environmental developments in the Honolulu Environmental section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Maui Now | Hawaii News | Local Maui News and Information | Hawaii News.
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