I have had the privilege of conducting my research in the Arctic, a region where the relationship between law and the environment is profoundly intimate, and where people and nature exist as one. My journey has been guided by an innovative approach that observes the connections between law and emotions, recognizing the impact that emotions have on our legal frameworks. By embracing the coexistence of Western legal orders and indigenous law, I have worked on deepening the understanding of our legal obligations towards the ocean. This is my understanding of Ocean Literacy! This approach enriches our comprehension of legal principles by encouraging a deeper sense of guardianship and responsibility.

SDG 16 , the Agenda and the significance for my work

Over the past five years, I have actively aligned my research and education with the goals of the Agenda 2030, driven by the principle of contributing to a shared future where no one is left behind. In this endeavor, I have coordinated projects, collaborated with Indigenous communities, and engaged with educators and learners to co-create research outcomes that explore the interplay between various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). My focus has been on SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), which underscores the interconnectedness of all goals. SDG 16, in particular, has reinforced my role as a legal scholar, highlighting the importance of integrating legal perspectives into efforts to advance quality education, support gender equality, and protect our environment. Law serves as a reminder of our interconnectedness, our obligations, and the reciprocity of duties and rights.

In my field, the most meaningful measure of success is the development of a robust network of relationships. I have worked to strengthen community-based approaches in legal work, empowering communities through trust-building, knowledge creation, and knowledge translation, with a focus on decolonizing research methodologies. A research approach that unifies rather than exploits is a valuable measure of achieving SDG 16.

My vision for the coming years is to continue learning from my peers and students, co-creating a community of care and respect, and restory-ing and regenerating relationships. Engaging all stakeholders, including policymakers, is best achieved by ensuring researchers collaborate with them from the project’s inception to its completion, developing platforms for dialogue and learning how to translate research findings effectively.

This approach also applies to public engagement. I strongly advocate for breaking down the barriers between research and outreach, involving community and society members in my work.

Call to Action

For researchers seeking to make a societal impact, I encourage you to find joy in your work. Go into the field, collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, and aim to produce scholarly works alongside tangible outputs. When I say tangible, I mean it in the most vivid way: if you organize a workshop, make it a celebration—cook together, exchange experiences, co-create materials, and play. We learn through play!

Have fun and explore some of the playful activities in the recent book co-edited by Laura Vita and me, with contributions from wonderful scholars! Link to Book