European Ocean Days: advancing ocean literacy and blue skills for a sustainable blue economy

Hosted by Directorate-General Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE) and the EU4Ocean coalition, with the support of IOC/UNESCO, the Ocean Literacy in Action event was a day filled with insightful discussions and activities. It took place in Brussels on 8 March 2024 as part of the first edition of the European Ocean Days.  

The mission of the event was to enhance public understanding of the ocean's pivotal role. It showcased the collective achievements of the EU4Ocean coalition’s three pillars – the platform, the Youth4Ocean Forum, and the Network of Blue Schools – along with global insights from IOC/UNESCO initiatives. 

The event featured a dialogue between Charlina Vitcheva, DG MARE’s Director General and Young Ocean Advocates; and sessions on bringing the ocean to the classroom, engaging the wider public in ocean literacy, and imagining our future sustainable ocean. 

One session focused on ocean literacy as a pre-condition for a sustainable blue economy and strengthened blue skills. A few key messages from the session: 

• Ocean literacy is under researched, with only around 7% of global scientific publications.  
• Key dimensions for improving the connection between maritime workers and the ocean include knowledge, attitudes, personal interests, ocean-friendly behaviours, and attitudes towards ocean use. 
• Ocean literacy is not just a luxury; it is essential for the green transition of the blue economy. 
• Ocean literacy is crucial for young people to get interested and skilled in the blue economy. 
• Engaging in activities like boating, surfing, or swimming can foster ocean literacy and spark interest in ocean-related professions. 
• There is a significant challenge in attracting young people to the industry and equipping them with necessary skills, including sustainability. 
• Building pathways to introduce young individuals to the industry early on can cultivate their interest and awareness of ocean sustainability, benefiting the industry and the environment. 
• Communicating the competitive advantages of sustainability to companies is essential, as there is growing demand among staff for education on sustainability issues. 
• Sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity, and companies that fail to engage with it risk being left behind. 

The event also hosted an Ocean Literacy Island with exhibition booths and interactive activities by EU4Ocean coalition members and IOC/UNESCO. 

Curious about the event? Watch the recording here!