Centre for Sustainable Ocean Science (SOS)

The Centre for Sustainable Ocean Science (SOS) is an Åbo Akademi University Centre of Excellence that generates transdisciplinary knowledge to address complex “wicked problems” related to marine biodiversity and its critical role in the transition towards sustainability. Funded by the Åbo Akademi University Foundation for 2024–2028, SOS focuses on understanding how the ongoing triple planetary crisis—biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution—affects marine ecosystems and society.

Through interdisciplinary research spanning natural sciences, social sciences, law, management, and the arts, SOS investigates how human–nature interactions in marine environments create complex challenges, and how these can be addressed. The Archipelago Sea and Åland Islands serve as a natural living laboratory for this work, offering rich sites for studying real-world interactions between people and marine biodiversity.

SOS combines reflexive, transdisciplinary research with co-creation and Living Lab methodologies, enabling collaboration between researchers, stakeholders, and society. Its work is structured into six work packages, where case studies of wicked problems are developed, analysed, and synthesised into actionable insights.

The Centre works closely with key partners within Åbo Akademi University and is led by Director Anna Törnroos-Remes and Vice Director Nina Tynkkynen, supported by a steering group, scientific advisory group, and community advisory committee.