?? Ocean literacy is more than understanding Marine value it's about valuing people ????

While scientific research plays a crucial role in understanding and conserving our oceans, it's important to be cautious where there is low ocean literacy. Here are a few points to consider:

1?? Local Knowledge: Communities living in coastal areas often possess valuable traditional knowledge about their marine environments. Low ocean literacy may lead to visiting scientists disregarding or undervaluing this knowledge, which can result in the exploitation of local resources and the undermining of indigenous cultures.

2?? Research Ethics: In regions with low ocean literacy, there may be a higher risk of unethical research practices. It's essential to ensure that scientists follow ethical guidelines, obtain informed consent from local communities, and involve them as 'equal' partners in research projects.

3?? Sustainable Collaboration: Collaboration between visiting scientists and local communities should be based on mutual respect and benefit sharing. It's crucial to prioritize capacity building, knowledge exchange, and empowering local people to actively participate in research and decision-making processes.

4?? Cultural Preservation: Low ocean literacy can pose a threat to cultural heritage and traditions tied to the marine environment. Visiting scientists should be mindful of the cultural significance of certain areas, species, or practices, and work towards interventions that are 'balanced', people centered and wholistic.

By promoting ocean literacy and encouraging responsible and equitable scientific practices, we can ensure that research in coastal areas is conducted ethically and with the best interests of both the environment and local communities at heart.

Written by

Veta Wade - [email protected]

"I use systems thinking, co-design, DEI practices and futures thinking in my work."

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