Lessons learned from the PICES FUTURE Program on development of an interdisciplinary international science program to advance ocean sustainability

Abstract Interdisciplinary international science programs that combine environmental, ecological, and social research are pivotal in advancing ocean sustainability by integrating diverse expertise and fostering collaboration across borders. We examine the evolution and accomplishments of the North Pacific Marine Science Organization’s (PICES) Forecasting and Understanding Trends, Uncertainty and Responses of North Pacific Ecosystems (FUTURE) Program, designed to understand and communicate the future of North Pacific ecosystems under various natural and anthropogenic forces. The program’s unique application of the North Pacific Social-Ecological-Environmental Systems (SEES) framework has aimed to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and enhance our comprehension of ecosystem responses to climate variability. Through a combination of systematic review and quantitative text analysis of research outputs, we evaluate the program’s success in addressing its scientific objectives, and identify key areas for future research. Our findings highlight significant shifts in PICES’ research focus over time, evolving from basic marine science to applied ecosystem management. We also discuss the challenges faced in understanding ecosystem resilience, the impact of human activities, and the effectiveness of interdisciplinary approaches in advancing ocean sustainability. The lessons learned from the first two phases of the FUTURE Program (2010–2020) provide valuable insights for planning and executing large-scale international science initiatives aimed at enhancing ocean sustainability and addressing global climate variability.