Established in 2018, the High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy (Ocean Panel) is a unique initiative made up of serving world leaders who are building momentum for a sustainable ocean economy in which effective protection, sustainable production and equitable prosperity go hand in hand. By working collaboratively with a wide array of stakeholders, the Ocean Panel aims to identify bold solutions that bridge ocean health, wealth and equity and accelerate and scale responsive action worldwide. This Blue Paper was prepared in support of the work of the Ocean Panel to provide a robust science and knowledge base and practical opportunities for action across issues central to the attainment of a sustainable ocean economy. The Blue Paper was developed by consensus of the authors who have balanced their individual academic and other perspectives. The arguments, findings and opportunities outlined in this Blue Paper represent the views of the authors alone. Ocean Panel members have not been asked to formally endorse the Blue Paper and should not be taken as having done so.