Bridging the Knowledge Gap: Ocean Literacy as the Cornerstone for Achieving the UN Ocean Decade’s Vision in the Arabian Gulf Region
摘要
The Arabian Gulf region, with its distinctive marine biodiversity and vital socio-economic importance, faces escalating environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution, and habitat degradation. Ocean Literacy (OL) plays a pivotal role in addressing these issues by deepening public understanding of the Ocean’s influence on people and the reciprocal effects of human activity. This chapter explores how Ocean Literacy can serve as a cornerstone for achieving the vision of the United Nations (UN) Ocean Decade for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) in the Gulf region. It emphasizes the empowerment of individuals, communities, and policymakers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions that support sustainable marine management and conservation. Drawing on examples of regional initiatives, educational programs, and awareness campaigns, the chapter highlights the need to bridge knowledge gaps and connect science, education, and policy. It further examines the alignment between national strategies and the Ocean Decade’s objectives, identifying opportunities to enhance the integration of Ocean Literacy. Finally, the chapter proposes a framework tailored to the Gulf context, centered on curriculum development, public awareness, and capacity building to foster a culture of Ocean engagement. Through these strategies, Ocean Literacy can advance the Decade’s vision of a healthy, productive, and resilient Ocean in the Arabian Gulf region.