Ocean&Climate Village docks in Venice and empowers the Ocean Generation for ocean preservation

Climate change and global warming are already impacting the health of the ocean in a myriad of ways and, consequently that of our planet. To understand and be mindful of the pivotal role of the ocean in our lives, is the first step towards its preservation and sustainable development.

To this end, in the context of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030), the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC-UNESCO) has developed the Ocean&Climate Village, a novel traveling, interactive and educational exhibition of its kind, opening a window towards the topic of ocean and climate. It targets different age groups and sectors of society and is a multi-sensory and educational experience designed from a perspective of collaboration and knowledge sharing. The aim is to reconnect people with the issues related to the importance of the ocean and our relationship with it, namely how it influences our lives and how our actions have an impact on it.

The Ocean&Climate Village is more than a mere physical space, it is also a meeting platform, where debates on sustainability, ecosystems and biodiversity protection, and innovation are promoted. It also represents Italy's efforts in spreading Ocean Literacy initiatives. As part of the UN Decade for Ocean Sciences and to foster sustainable development, Italy is investing significant resources in further engaging society towards the marine environment and its issues. In this context, guided tours were undertaken to enrol students and visitors in hands-on laboratory activities, debates with marine science professionals, and educational materials such as videos and digital installations.

The Ocean&Climate Village is more than an exhibition, it is an experience. It not only contributes to raising the awareness on the connection between the ocean and climate, but also to encouraging everyone to become active actors of change for sustainable development.