Ocean Literacy
Ocean literacy is about understanding the powerful connection between people and the Ocean. At Mercator Ocean International, we believe that protecting our Ocean starts with understanding it. We work with institutions worldwide to share knowledge, inspire curiosity, and help people discover the vital role the Ocean plays in our lives.
Get Started: Surface Knowledge
Mercator Ocean International collaborates with various organisations to enhance Ocean literacy and raise awareness about marine conservation.
Ocean thematic pages: Marine Heatwaves
EU4OceanObs: Ocean Observing Awareness Campaign
Ocean Explainers
MyOcean Learn
Dive Deeper: Explore Our Engagements
Through events like international conferences and museum exhibits, Mercator Ocean promotes Ocean literacy by sharing models and expertise. These efforts have helped over 1 million people understand the Ocean’s challenges and potential. By developing innovative tools and fostering engagement, we aim to inspire sustainable practices and greater public involvement in marine conservation.
Institutional Collaborations
Mercator Ocean International collaborates with various organisations to enhance Ocean literacy and raise awareness about marine conservation.
UNESCO-IOC
Our participation in the IOC-UNESCO Ocean Literacy Platform involves providing in-situ data, Ocean literacy resources, and science reports to enhance global understanding of Ocean issues.
Ecsite
As a member of Ecsite, the European Network for Science Centres and Museums, Mercator Ocean aims to increase scientific mediation and ensure that the Ocean becomes a focal point for participating museums.
Ocean and Climate Platform
We are also a member of the Ocean and Climate Platform’s Administration Council, where we produce scientific materials to support members and their political initiatives.
Raising awareness
To address the Ocean’s challenges and potential, Mercator Ocean International has engaged in numerous events, from international conferences to museum exhibits. By reaching diverse segments of society, we disseminate scientific knowledge that fosters sustainable Ocean practices. We continually develop new tools to enhance public engagement and understanding of marine conservation.
TIMKAT: Our Ocean from Space travelling Exhibition
The « Our Ocean from Space » travelling exhibition was showcased at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris from 28 October to 31 December 2024. Co-produced by UNESCO and the European Space Agency (ESA), this exhibition highlights the vital role of Ocean observation and modelling in promoting sustainable and responsible use of Ocean resources. It features stunning satellite imagery, augmented reality, modelled data graphics and interviews with marine stakeholders, allowing the public to appreciate the beauty and significance of our Ocean as seen from space.
Supported by Mercator Ocean International, along with various national agencies, the exhibition covers nine key themes, including oceanic ecosystems, climate change, and maritime traffic.
TIMKAT has organized this display with funding from the European Union through the EU4OceanObs project.
Meteo & Climat
Chaired by climatologist Jean Jouzel, Météo et Climat unites atmospheric and climate science communities, promotes their research, and advocates for their interests. It fosters dialogue between experts and decision-makers while raising public awareness about climate change among individuals, businesses, and institutions. Mercator Ocean provides support to the association by offering access to various resources aimed at enhancing understanding of Ocean and climate dynamics. Contributions include:
- With our Viewers: Our tools allow users to visualise oceanographic data, making complex information more accessible and understandable for researchers, educators, and the public.
- Key figures and insights from our Ocean State Report: This Copernicus Marine Service Ocean State Report, coordinated by Mercator Ocean, is a reference Report of the European Union. It offers insights into the current state of the Ocean, highlighting critical indicators related to climate change, marine ecosystems, and ocean health. It serves as a valuable resource for policymakers and stakeholders involved in climate action.
Museum exhibitions
Our tools are specifically designed for exhibitions, and they cover ocean currents, water level, acidification and more. We have created an interactive application that can be used on computers or touch tools so that the public can interact with ocean data.
We currently have partnerships with 3 different institutions: La Rochelle Aquarium, Nausicaa, and Cité de l’Espace.
Aquarium La Rochelle
Nausicaa
