In recent years, ocean literacy has become an increasingly widely discussed concept, not only among researchers and educators but also in political initiatives in Sweden and internationally. But what does ocean literacy actually mean? And why is it something we should strive for? BalticWaters explains the concept.
Being ocean-conscious means understanding how we affect the ocean. But it is also about the importance of the ocean, its resources, and services to us humans. The concept is based on the realization that the ocean and humans are interconnected. The ocean is our largest ecosystem and a prerequisite for all life on Earth. At the same time, it is severely affected by human impact.
Seven Principles of Ocean Literacy
Ocean literacy is based on seven principles that together provide a comprehensive picture of the importance of the ocean:
- The Earth has a single large ocean with many characteristics
- The ocean and marine life shape the characteristics of the Earth
- The ocean has a major influence on weather and climate
- The ocean makes the Earth habitable
- The ocean enables a great diversity of life and ecosystems
- The ocean and humankind are inextricably linked
- The ocean is largely unexplored
Understanding these principles is the foundation of ocean literacy. But knowledge is only part of the picture. A ocean-literate person can also communicate about the ocean in a meaningful way and use their understanding to make sustainable, knowledge-based decisions that affect the ocean and its resources. It is about turning knowledge into action – understanding the connections between the ocean, people, and society, and acting accordingly.
Why is Ocean Literacy necessary?
Conclusion:
Being ocean literate means understanding how we affect the ocean, but also how important the ocean, its resources, and services are to us. But understanding is only part of it – ocean literacy is also about making this knowledge present in our political decisions and in our everyday lives. When more people become aware of the importance of the ocean and the consequences of our actions, the opportunity to protect the ocean, preserve its diversity, and ensure a living and sustainable ocean for us and future generations increases.
Hope the waters feel a little clearer now!
Want to know more about ocean literacy?
Read our in-depth article “Ocean literacy contributes to well-informed decisions about the Baltic Sea”. In it, we explain how the concept is used in different ways, but also why knowledge about the sea is so low and how this trend can be reversed.
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