Ocean Literacy in European Oceanographic Agencies: EuroGOOS recommendations for the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030.

Abstract

From local and national to global levels, Ocean Literacy enables science to engage with policy and society on the topics of ocean sustainability, observations and research. This policy brief provides recommendations on how to enhance Ocean Literacy activities in oceanographic agencies in the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030.

Ocean Literacy is becoming as a strategic activity area in oceanography. Ocean Literacy tools and approaches are needed to increase societal and policy awareness of the needs, challenges, and opportunities of the ocean observing enterprise. Ocean Literacy is also important for achieving sustained operations and funding of the ocean observing systems, maintained predominantly by public funding.

The United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030, implemented by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO, put forward Ocean Literacy as an enabler for engaging with stakeholders and determining common understanding and joint identification of solutions towards sustainability. In addition to strengthening dialogue and engagement at science-policy interfaces, Ocean Literacy also helps reach out to sectors and disciplines outside of the traditional domains of marine sciences or maritime economy and management, from art and culture to sport and recreation.

Ocean Literacy connects all sectors of society. It demonstrates the value of ocean science for sustainable economy and policy, helping to create a common baseline of understanding and a common set of values. This is critical for stakeholders who jointly address complex issues characterizing the marine environment and support decisions on responsible environmental management and sustainable blue economy.