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An alarming disconnect: Global study by Back to Blue reveals urgent need for ocean literacy
Results from the 3,500 respondents in 35 countries found that 75% of 18-24 year olds are concerned about the state of ocean health. Yet, few acknowledge the jeopardy the ocean is in, nor the ways in which this can be prevented because despite concerns for the ocean, almost half (47%) of young people think the ocean is still healthy. The Dominican Republic , Puerto Rico and The Philippines are among some of the top countries that believe this, when each is struggling with plastic pollution, coral reef degradation and habitat loss.
It strongly indicates that young people do not fully fathom the dire conditions of our oceans. This is also evident in the fact that 50% of young people do not understand how the ocean impacts them and how they, in turn, impact the ocean. Furthermore, 61% prioritise other climate issues, such as deforestation, over ocean conservation. Notably, this perspective is shared by 88% of young people in Panama—a country bordered by both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, where the ocean plays a vital role in the economy.
Strengthened ocean literacy can be argued as pivotal for fostering a deeper understanding of the ocean's multifaceted role, not only as a driver of local economic prosperity through industries like fisheries, tourism, and renewable energy but also as a critical buffer against climate change impacts. A lack of this foundational knowledge risks delaying urgent policymaking and sourcing of funding as weak citizen or stakeholder pressure to reverse damage, will slow progress, perpetuating a vicious cycle of ocean neglect.
Limited comprehension of the oceans' endangered state was also accompanied by little demand amongst young people for significant action or accountability from ocean stakeholders. The study found that less than half (46%) of young people want government action that will ensure the oceans health, and only 17% want to see corporations and businesses take increased responsibility.
The latter finding is increasingly concerning as the study also reveals that young people are significantly concerned about contaminating the ocean - chemical pollution (48%) and plastic pollution (50%) yet they do not know where responsibility lies. Tackling ocean pollution is no easy feat, but private sector accountability will be paramount to its success via increased responsibility for the lifecycle of plastic products and chemical leaks in the process of production.
Educators and policymakers have a unique opportunity to address the low levels of ocean literacy among young people. By incorporating ocean literacy into school curriculums—and with greater support from governments—they can equip the next generation with the knowledge and tools needed to protect our oceans and address the challenges they face.
The survey was created by Economist Impact and issued to 35 countries in September 2024 . It was in the field for three weeks and acquired 3,500 responses from young people aged 18-24. Countries involved were: Argentina , Australia , Brazil , Canada , Chile , China , Costa Rica , Côte d'Ivoire ( Ivory Coast ), Dominican Republic , Ecuador , El Salvador , Finland , Ghana , India , Indonesia , Japan , Malaysia , Mexico , Morocco , Mozambique , Namibia , New Zealand , Norway , Panama , Peru , Philippines , Portugal , Puerto Rico , South Africa , South Korea , Sri Lanka , Tanzania , Thailand , United Kingdom and Vietnam .
Ocean literacy is the understanding of the ocean's influence on us and our influence on the ocean. It encompasses the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to understand and communicate the ocean's essential role in our environment, climate, and everyday lives. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions and take responsible actions to protect the ocean and its resources.
Back to Blue is an initiative by Economist Impact and The Nippon Foundation tackles ocean challenges with evidence-based solutions. Addressing gaps in understanding plastic and chemical pollution and ocean acidification, it leverages both organizations' strengths in research and program development to drive progress in ocean health.
Economist Impact combines the rigour of a think-tank with the creativity of a media brand to engage a globally influential audience. With framework design, benchmarking, economic and social impact analysis, forecasting and scenario modelling, Economist Impact provides creative storytelling, events expertise and market-leading media products.
Established in 1962, The Nippon Foundation is Japan's largest philanthropic foundation. In ocean affairs, the Foundation aims to cultivate human resources who will chart a course for the ocean's future and to pass on the ocean's riches to future generations. Other primary areas of activity include support for children, persons with disabilities and disaster relief.
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/an-alarming-disconnect-global-study-by-back-to-blue-reveals-urgent-need-for-ocean-literacy-302475603.html