N_BG | Marine Conservation & Ocean Litteracy subsectors | MOOC

Marine conservation is the protection and sustainable management of marine ecosystems, species, and resources to safeguard biodiversity and maintain ocean health. It involves efforts to reduce human pressures on the marine environment, such as pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction, while promoting sustainable practices like marine protected areas (MPAs), habitat restoration, responsible fisheries and aquaculture management. Marine conservation integrates scientific research, policy-making, and community engagement to ensure long-term ocean resilience and the well-being of coastal communities that depend on marine resources and habitats. With increasing recognition of the ocean’s role in climate regulation and global sustainability, the sector is adopting innovative solutions, such as blue carbon strategies, marine spatial planning, and eco-friendly maritime technologies. Technological advancements, including remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and citizen science platforms, are playing a crucial role in monitoring ocean health and enhancing conservation efforts.

Ocean Literacy is the understanding of the ocean’s influence on us and our influence on the ocean that allows transforming knowledge into meaningful behavioural change and action for the ocean. Ocean literacy promotes awareness of the “services” that the ocean provides us with, such as oxygen, food and energy resources, and consequently empowers individuals and communities in making informed decisions for sustainable marine management. It is essential for promoting education, marine conservation, and achieving global sustainability goals, ensuring that societies recognize the ocean's vital role in our daily lives and the planet’s health.