The Scientific Steering Committee (SSC) provides guidance to the Chair on project planning, development and implementation. The sponsoring programs nominate SSC members based on the recommendations of the SSC, and the SSC appoints two Vice-Chairs, one liaising IGBP and one representing IHDP.

The primary functions of the SSC are to:

• Oversee and guide the continued project development, planning and implementation as well as the delivery of project outputs
• Encourage collaboration between LOICZ, the ESSP, and international programs and agencies concerned with global change in the coastal zone
• Provide scientific advice and assistance to national Global Change and ESSP Committees
• Encourage national governments and regional and international funding agencies to support research that contributes to the LOICZ SPIS.

Ramachandran Ramesh (Chairperson)
Bruce Glavovic (Vice chairperson)
Marion Glaser

The executive board of the SSC is assisted by two members from the IPO:
Hartwig Kremer
Juergen Weichselgartner