BECi

Basin Scale Events & Coastal Impacts

Uniting the north pacific to better understand the ocean we share

BECI was co-developed by the North Pacific Marine Science Organization (PICES) and North Pacific Anadromous Fish Commission (NPAFC), bringing together decades of experience in transboundary marine science and conservation. The project is endorsed by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, recognizing its contribution to global ocean knowledge and sustainability goals.

our purpose

BECI is developing a North Pacific Ocean Climate Knowledge Network (NPO-CKN) to connect diverse organizations across the basin—from research institutions to management bodies to coastal communities—to enhance synthesis of climate science and practical knowledge. By breaking down knowledge silos and fostering collaboration across boundaries, we work to create a holistic understanding of both climate change impacts and current research efforts. Our network aims to support informed decision-making, enhance ecosystem resilience, and promote sustainable management while helping organizations address shared challenges in our changing ocean.

our
vision

A resilient North Pacific Ocean where science, knowledge, and collaboration drive effective climate adaptation and conservation, supporting the needs of resource managers, coastal communities, and decision-makers across the region.

our
mission

To connect organizations across the North Pacific with climate science and practical knowledge for informed decision-making that enhances ecosystem resilience and supports sustainable marine resource management. Through targeted knowledge synthesis and exchange, we support decision-makers, scientists, and ocean-dependent communities at local to international scales in preparing for and responding to climate change impacts.

knowledge network components

past, present, and future

Learning From the Past: Archival and retrospective analysis

To build resilience for future change, we must first understand how marine ecosystems and communities have responded to previous climate events. By synthesizing historical data, observations, and management responses, we can identify patterns, thresholds, and successful adaptation strategies.

understanding the present: Monitoring, Research, and knowledge integration

Through strategic coordination across the North Pacific, we will develop comprehensive understanding of both how climate change is transforming our ocean and how organizations are responding to these changes. By connecting monitoring networks, research programs, and management initiatives, we will track environmental changes while synthesizing current scientific efforts and management responses. This integrated approach will support collaboration among organizations, identify knowledge gaps, and enable more effective climate-informed decision-making across the region.

preparing for the future: scenario planning and coordination

Climate-informed decision making requires understanding potential future conditions and having strategies ready for different scenarios. By integrating climate projections with management needs, we can help organizations prepare for and adapt to coming changes.

outputs

The North Pacific Ocean Climate Knowledge Network will synthesize and share knowledge about climate change impacts and responses across the region. By connecting diverse knowledge sources and research efforts, we will build a more comprehensive understanding of how climate change affects North Pacific marine ecosystems. Our outputs will support climate-informed decisions while fostering new collaborations, improving information flow, and strengthening existing networks.

Our knowledge network will provide:

  • Interactive Platforms
  • Knowledge Products
  • Climate Adaptation Planning Tools
  • Knowledge Exchange and Collaboration Networks
  • Discussion Forums

Together, these efforts create a more coordinated and effective response to climate change in the North Pacific Ocean.

why this matters

The North Pacific Ocean is experiencing profound changes due to climate variability and long-term climate change, affecting marine species, ecosystems, and fisheries. By creating the North Pacific Ocean Climate Knowledge Network, we will ensure that the region’s decision-makers, researchers, and local communities have access to the best available knowledge, enabling informed, climate-ready decisions.

This network will foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders and Indigenous communities, enhance the synthesis of existing knowledge, and provide tools for managing the ocean’s resources sustainably in the face of change.

get involved

BECI is in the development and strategic planning phase. While our initial focus will be on Pacific salmon as an exemplar species, we will build a flexible and expandable network that can address climate impacts on other priority species and ecosystems across the North Pacific. Through this phased approach, we will demonstrate the value of enhanced knowledge sharing while building capacity for broader application.

BECI is committed to working with organizations and partners across the North Pacific , including research institutions, governments, private sector, and Indigenous communities. Together we can ensure a healthy, sustainable ocean for generations to come.

BECI is funded by the British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund (BCSRIF)

Connect with us!
Contact:
Kathryn Berry, BECI Science Director – Kathryn.Berry@pices.int
Website: beci.info