ECO Canada is seeking consultants to develop three digital learning courses focused on building policy literacy and applied planning knowledge among ocean professionals. These courses will provide foundational and applied learning on regulatory frameworks, international governance structures, and marine spatial planning. Together, they aim to equip learners with a comprehensive understanding of how ocean policy is created, implemented, and applied at local, national, and global scales.
- Course 1: Understanding Federal and Provincial Regulations in Canada’s Ocean Sector
This course will cover the key legislation, regulatory bodies, and approval processes relevant to ocean-related activities in Canada. Learners will gain practical insight into compliance, permitting, jurisdictional overlaps, Indigenous governance, and co-management practices. Sector-specific modules will highlight how these regulations affect marine industries, including aquaculture, shipping, offshore energy, and conservation.
Learning Objectives: Identify key federal and provincial regulators and their roles, Understand the permitting and compliance processes in different sectors, explain co-governance and Indigenous roles in ocean management, Navigate Canadian regulatory frameworks affecting marine operations.
- Course 2: Global Governance & Policy Frameworks in the Ocean Sector
Focused on international ocean governance, this course will introduce learners to major global conventions, treaties, and intergovernmental organizations shaping marine activities and conservation efforts. Topics will include the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ), Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs), and cross-border cooperation challenges. Learners will explore how international policy connects to national implementation.
Learning Objectives: Describe global treaties and institutions governing ocean activities, Understand the connection between international law and national policy, analyze challenges in implementing global frameworks at regional scales, Apply knowledge of international agreements to real-world marine issues
- Course 3: Marine Spatial Planning (MPAs) & Ocean Zoning
This applied course will explore marine spatial planning (MSP) as a policy and management tool. Learners will understand the steps and data requirements for effective MSP, including stakeholder engagement, ecological considerations, socioeconomic priorities, and zoning processes. Special attention will be given to Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), Indigenous-led planning, and conflict resolution in multi-use ocean areas.
Learning Objectives: Understand the fundamentals of marine spatial planning and ocean zoning, Describe the steps in developing an MSP framework, including stakeholder input, evaluate ecological and socioeconomic data for zoning decisions, Assess the role of MPAs and Indigenous-led planning in sustainable ocean use.
