A lighthouse is often defined simply as “a tall building near the coast or shore with a flashing light at the top to warn ships of rocks and other dangers.” Yet for humans, its meaning extends far beyond navigation. A lighthouse symbolizes culture, safety, memory, tradition, inspiration, and hope.
Chocolate, on the other hand, delights the senses and brings people together across cultures. At first glance, these two might seem worlds apart, yet both can serve as powerful connectors, sparking curiosity, engagement, and shared experiences.
This spirit of connection was present at the European Marine Science Educators Association (EMSEA) Conference, held this September in Oostende, Belgium. There, we explored how Ocean Literacy can act as a lighthouse for society, guiding knowledge, responsibility, and action, while also creating moments of inspiration and joy, much like sharing a piece of Belgian seashell chocolate.
This year’s EMSEA Conference in Oostende, Belgium, offered an important platform to share progress and innovations in ocean literacy. SUBMON presented two projects that bring this vision to life, turning ideas into tangible and meaningful actions:
- SEA2SEE Project: through the development of a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), SEA2SEE aims to enhance seafood literacy and promote responsible seafood consumption. The MOOC empowers participants to understand the human-ocean relationship behind their choices and to engage in informed, sustainable practices.
- BiodivOcean Project: focused on marine biodiversity education, this project provides practical, hands-on tools for schools to explore ocean ecosystems, citizen science, and inclusive approaches to learning. These tools make it easier for educators to bring the ocean into the classroom and to foster curiosity and stewardship among students.
Both projects exemplify how Ocean Literacy moves beyond knowledge to inspire tangible actions and deeper connections with the marine environment.
Juanita Zorrilla presenting the SEA2SEE project.
The EMSEA 2025 Conference reaffirmed the importance of education, collaboration, and creativity in turning ocean literacy into real-world change. By sharing practical tools and engaging educators, SUBMON continues to contribute to greater awareness, responsible behavior, and long-term care for marine ecosystems.
The insights and connections gained in Oostende will continue to guide our work, a steady light, much like a lighthouse, as we keep advancing the SEA2SEE and BiodivOcean initiatives and turning knowledge into meaningful action for the ocean.
Looking ahead: EMSEA 2026 in Barcelona
EMSEA 2025 highlighted the crucial role of education, collaboration, and innovative tools in translating ocean literacy into tangible, real-world impact. Looking ahead, EMSEA 2026 will be celebrated in Barcelona, and we are excited to support the Institut de Ciències del Mar and the Blue School Network in designing the next conference. We look forward to contributing to a dynamic platform that continues to connect educators, scientists, and ocean advocates across Europe.
