IOC Sub-Commission for the Western Pacific (WESTPAC)
Advancing knowledge and cooperation for a healthy ocean and prosperous society
Work Area #7
Ocean Literacy
Cultivate an ocean-literate society
Ocean Literacy is defined as “the understanding of human influence on the ocean and the ocean’s influence on humans.” It is more than awareness — it empowers citizens, communities, and stakeholders to take responsible action for the health of our ocean and the sustainable use of its resources.
WESTPAC promotes Ocean Literacy across the region by engaging with government agencies, educational and research institutions, the private sectors, foundations, and Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs). In close collobration with Member States and partners, we aim to cultivate an ocean-literate society. We together contributes to the conservation and sustainable use of the ocean.
Relevant Events:
• Scoping Workshop for the Intersessional Task Force on Ocean Literacy (9-10 September 2025)
• Call for Ocean Literacy Experts (May 2025)
• Establishment of the Intersessional Task Force on Ocean Literacy during the Fifteenth Intergovernmental Session of the IOC Sub-Commission for the Western Pacific (WESTPAC-XV) at Tokyo in 11-13 March 2025.
