Scientists for Ocean Literacy: An Ocean Decade Project to Empower Scientists as Ocean Champions

Abstract

The Ocean Decade project “Scientists for Ocean Literacy” is helping marine scientists become more actively involved in public engagement. Scientists have the power, knowledge, and passion to explain the importance of the ocean for the planet. But scientists cannot do this alone. Scientists for Ocean Literacy aims at expanding the horizon of science communication towards a multi-stake-holder dialogue. The project is building on the best practices from the European community of oceanographers and meteorologists, bringing in other science disciplines, culture, and the arts, and promoting inclusiveness, diversity, and accessibility in the public engagement activities. This article explains the raison d’être for the Scientists for Ocean Literacy project, its objectives and actions, and gives recommendations on how to improve the ocean literacy offer in the publicly funded oceanographic and meteorological agencies and beyond.