Marine-based products and services (MAPS): Expo exploring natural and alternative materials for SDG 14

On the occasion of the 5th United Nations Ocean Forum, scheduled from 3–5 March 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland, UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and its partners invite relevant manufacturers of marine-based products (including food and nonfood products), businesses in the sustainability sector, organizations focused on ocean conservation and sustainable use, and innovators to participate in the Marine-based Products and Services (MAPS) Expo.

Complementary to the 5th Ocean Forum's theme, "Ocean Economy, Trade Policy, Climate, and Development Nexus," MAPS Expo will feature natural marine-based, as well as non-plastic product substitutes, alternatives, and related services within the Ocean Economy that support the conservation and sustainable use ocean, marine ecosystems, and coastal livelihoods.

While recognizing the significant challenges facing the oceans, this UNCTAD initiative seeks to balance urgency with optimism. Showcasing real-world solutions that contribute to addressing food security, mitigating plastic pollution, facilitating decarbonization, and engaging in the sustainable use of marine resources aligns with the commitment to encourage actions, contribute to public discourse, and foster tangible change.

The MAPS Expo is an opportunity for collaboration and growth. It intends to create an international reach platform for participants to showcase their products and innovations, facilitating network and exchange and leveraging the 5th Ocean Forum's interdisciplinary audience that combines diplomatic, scientific, economic, and advocacy voices, all on the road to the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice on 9–13 June 2025.

By stimulating awareness and partnerships, the MAPS Expo encourages ongoing efforts to develop and adopt ocean-safe and low-carbon products, helping to reshape industries and consumer behaviour.

The MAPS Expo hopes to turn the 3rd-floor communal hall of UNOG's E-building, Palais de Nations, Geneva, which leads to the Ocean Forum meeting room XIX, into a dynamic and interactive space. Filled with product demonstrations and displays, informational sessions by exhibitors, and networking spaces to facilitate discussion among attendees, it brings the intersection of ocean-friendly innovation, frontier materials, trade policy, and sustainable development to life.