At the International Marine Conservation Congress (IMCC), scientists and practitioners come together to share research, tools, and lessons learned that further our understanding of marine science and policy. With over 800 delegates in attendance, IMCC is the single largest gathering of ocean conservationists in the world. The meeting brings together those from many walks of life, including but not limited to researchers, regulators, fishers, educators, artists, students and communicators.  

Given the focus on ocean literacy as a key mechanism for achieving the goals of the UN Ocean Decade, particularly Challenge 10 – transforming humanity’s relationship with the ocean – it is  crucial that we continue to examine the evolving concept, its underlying principles, and current research efforts critical to motivating societal engagement in marine conservation. 

The symposium, “Understanding Human-Ocean connections and values: Actioning the UN Ocean Decade” will be the first of two aligning symposia, will include Jen McRuer speaking on the Ocean & Society Survey.