Background
The Blue Economy, which encompasses economic activities related to oceans, seas and coasts, is vital to life on Earth. However, the rapid degradation of marine and freshwater ecosystems poses challenges that threaten the well-being of European citizens. This underlines the urgency outlined in the EU Green Deal and the Mission “Restore Our Ocean and Waters” by 2030.
Challenges remain in promoting ocean literacy, especially among young people, as marine ecosystems face increasing threats. Deliberative democracy, social innovation, citizen science and awareness-raising campaigns are key tools. Recognising youth as catalysts for change, initiatives should integrate life-changing projects into school curricula and promote grassroots and international mobilisation. Communities need to be empowered with knowledge that fosters an understanding of the importance of the ocean and individual impacts on the marine environment.
The evolving concept of environmental education emphasises a holistic approach to sustainable development. Coordination, engagement at local and international levels, and mobilisation across all sectors are essential for a 'Decade of Action' to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Despite progress, a comprehensive approach to the challenges remains crucial.
Key Project
Empower Students as the Agents of Change (SHORE) is a 36-month HORIZON Coordination and Support Actions funded by the European Union.
SHORE aims to improve ocean literacy by involving students and teachers in the implementation of Mission Ocean objectives through collaborative projects and activities at the school level. This initiative will develop training materials and educational courses aligned with blue curricula for schools in the Baltic Sea, Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Danube and Rhine regions. Participating schools will have the opportunity to apply for grants to support the implementation of their blue projects. The most outstanding school project will be awarded the prestigious title of Ocean Ambassador of the Year. Most importantly, SHORE aims to act as a comprehensive resource hub, facilitating links between researchers, local stakeholders and schools in each regional area. Yildiz Technical University (Türkiye) is leading a diverse consortium behind SHORE. Comprising 14 partners, each bringing different expertise, innovation and experience, the project is committed to promoting ocean literacy across our five regional areas.
Mission Oceans Helix
The Mission Oceans Helix is an international open innovation community of experts from academia, education and training in the blue economy, water and marine ecosystems and related fields.
Launched with a specific focus on driving impact, leveraging resources and facilitating knowledge dissemination, the Helix plays a critical role in supporting the broader Mission Oceans community's goal of improving the health and sustainability of our oceans and waters.
SHORE IS AN EU MISSION RESTORE OUR OCEANS AND WATERS PROJECT. Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 101112815.
Funded by
the European Union
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EU Mission Restore our Ocean & Waters
Joana Soares
The ocean's potential lies not only in its depths but in collective excellence. In open innovation, we find a compass that guides us towards sustainable solutions and a shared commitment to the restoration and protection of our precious ocean and waters.
