European Centre for Information on Marine Science and Technology
EurOcean
EurOcean is the European Centre for Information on Marine Science and Technology.
ID: 892196930597-97
Lobbying Activity
Response to The European Oceans Pact
14 Feb 2025
EurOcean welcomes the European Commission's initiative to develop the European Oceans Pact, reinforcing Europes commitment to sustainable ocean governance and its seas' protection, resilience, and productivity. As the European Centre for Information on Marine Science and Technology, EurOcean is committed to sharing science-based knowledge and is dedicated to facilitating access to marine knowledge and enhancing citizen engagement in ocean governance. EurOcean believes that a strategic framework for ocean policies must place citizens at its core. Public participation strengthens decision-making, fosters shared responsibility and ensures broader societal support for marine conservation[1]. Policies developed without citizen involvement risk detachment and reduced effectiveness. Moreover, cultivating a sense of belonging to the ocean is essential for long-term commitment to sustainability. Strengthening cultural and emotional connections to the sea encourages active stewardship[2]. EurOcean advocates for the provision of clear, accurate, and science-based information as fundamental to effective ocean policies. Stakeholders need trusted and verifiable data, presented in accessible language, free from unnecessary technical complexity. In an era of misinformation, particularly regarding marine pollution and climate change, ensuring the credibility and transparency of ocean-related information is more important than ever[3]. Misinformation can distort public perception, hinder environmental action, and weaken trust in institutions. The European Commission plays a vital role in fostering confidence in ocean policies by promoting fact-based, open, and transparent communication. Key Priorities for the European Oceans Pact: 1. Democratizing Ocean Knowledge: Citizen science initiatives engage the public in ocean research, improving data collection and promoting environmental responsibility. Community-driven efforts, like marine litter monitoring, provide valuable insights for policymaking. Open access to marine data supports evidence-based decisions and encourages informed participation. Ocean literacy programmes through schools, museums, and digital platforms make marine science more accessible, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of the ocean. 2. Strengthening Societal Connections to the Ocean: Recognising the role of coastal communities, fishers, sailors, and maritime professionals in ocean governance is key to public engagement. Cultural expressions, like films and art, communicate the urgency of marine conservation, while participatory activities, including citizen science and experiential learning, strengthen connections between people and the sea, promoting long-term stewardship. 3. Guaranteeing Access to Clear and Transparent Ocean Information: Ocean data should be accessible, presented in non-technical language, and shared through reliable platforms to empower European citizens. Providing accurate, science-based information is vital for countering misinformation and building public trust. Marine policies and data should also be communicated in multilingual, accessible formats to engage all Europeans in ocean governance. EurOcean is ready to support the European Commission and key stakeholders in ensuring that the European Oceans Pact reflects an inclusive, participatory, and knowledge-driven approach to ocean governance. By empowering all sectors of society through accessible information, fostering ocean literacy, and strengthening societal connections to the sea, we can enhance public engagement and ensure a resilient and sustainable future for Europes oceans. References: [1] The Aarhus Convention (UN) | [2] Raising and integrating the cultural values of the Ocean (IUCN) | [3] Communicating on Climate Change (UN)
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