Today, on
@unworldoceansday , we launch the
#VeniceDeclaration for Ocean Literacy in Action: How to engage society to regenerate the most valuable ecosystem on our Planet. We do so with the firm conviction that Ocean Literacy will empower communities to respect the marine environment and preserve ocean cultures around the world. Ultimately, it can become the foundation for all sustainable development.
Ocean Literacy is more than understanding ocean science; it means recognizing the far-reaching consequences of our actions. By cultivating a global culture of ocean stewardship, we can facilitate a future where we thrive in harmony with the ocean. It is our collective will and responsibility to foster a more just and sustainable relationship with our vital global commons: all life on Earth depends on it. We need an ocean-literate society that advocates for policies that respect the ocean’s inherent right to exist, flourish and regenerate.
The Ocean Literacy movement has undergone a remarkable evolution. From its beginnings as a school-based initiative to teach ocean science, it has blossomed into a vibrant, global community that recognizes the ocean's vital importance to our future. This diverse network, spanning cultures, generations, and geographies, shares a passion for the ocean and a commitment to respect it. In a promising shift, the movement is increasingly embracing the wisdom of Indigenous and local communities, and acknowledging the critical role of an ocean-literate society.
Through common purpose and close collaboration, this community is working tirelessly to restore humanity's relationship with the ocean. These efforts align with the goals of the
@unoceandecade and will be instrumental in building a sustainable ocean economy that ensures environmental well-being and human prosperity for generations to come.
The Ocean Literacy World Conference was held within the framework of the
#SeaBeyond project, a collaboration between Prada Group and
@ioc_unesco .
Read the Venice Declaration at the link in bio!