Empowering sustainable development through Ocean Literacy: the UN Ocean Decade Scientists for Ocean Literacy project by EuroGOOS

The UN Ocean Decade Scientists for Ocean Literacy project, led by EuroGOOS, is advancing the integration of ocean literacy into the core activities of European research institutions and public agencies. As an official action of the UN Ocean Decade, this project promotes ocean literacy as a critical enabler of sustainable development and aims to enhance the engagement of diverse societal actors with ocean science. By connecting multidisciplinary initiatives and fostering international partnerships, the project addresses key Decade challenges and fosters informed dialogue between marine scientists and the public.

Engaging in ocean literacy offers distinct benefits for scientists, as the recent EuroGOOS survey shows. These include heightened visibility for their research, strengthened communication skills, and professional recognition. Moreover, OL activities foster connections with local communities and policymakers, enhancing scientists’ influence and advocacy for sustainable ocean practices. By understanding public perspectives, scientists can more effectively tailor their research communications to support informed decision-making.

The Scientists for Ocean Literacy project employs a variety of outreach and engagement techniques, including training, surveys, public events, and knowledge-sharing showcases, building on the foundational work of the EuroGOOS Ocean Literacy Working Group. Through this collaborative approach, the project promotes awareness of the ocean’s vital role in global health, climate regulation, and biodiversity, while encouraging the public to actively participate in ocean stewardship. The project also emphasizes the importance of promoting marine science as a career path. Through multidisciplinary and cross-sectoral partnerships, the project advocates for increased funding and institutional support for ocean literacy activities, helping to bridge the gap between ocean science, policy, and society.

The EuroGOOS talk will showcase best practices across Europe and advocate for transformative potential of ocean literacy to address pressing ocean challenges, such as climate change, pollution, and sustainable resource use. Through inclusive ocean literacy initiatives that prioritize diversity, leverage digital tools, and engage local actors in co-designed activities, ocean literacy activities in marine scientific agencies are enablers of change towards restoring public’s relationship with the ocean, through latest science and diverse forms of knowledge.

Keywords: Ocean literacy, sustainable development, societal engagement, science communication, ocean science, UN Ocean Decade