Dhaka, Nov. 19 -- Humans depend on the ocean, whether we live near or far from it. But to what extent are citizens aware of the state of the oceans and their environmental, economic, political, medical and cultural importance?

The essence of ocean literacy is to know and understand the ocean's influence on us, and our influence on the ocean, as a fundamental concept for living and acting sustainably. Marine literacy helps to raise public awareness and gives us the tools to make responsible decisions about our environmental impacts, public policies and maritime activities.

Ocean literacy connects all spheres of society. It demonstrates the value of ocean science for sustainable economy and policy, helping to create a common basis of unde...