The Ocean is not separate from UK society – it supports our economy, influences climate, affects health and provides opportunities for learning, participation and employment.
If the Ocean is degraded to the extent that it can no longer carry out its natural processes effectively, the consequences will be felt far beyond the marine environment.
When people understand how the Ocean supports them, they are better able to recognise the consequences of its decline and support informed, sustainable decisions.
That’s where the Ocean Conservation Trust (OCT) comes in…
Our goal is to support a healthy Ocean by enabling people to develop sustainable, pro-Ocean behaviours that protect Ocean health and, in turn, support our own health, well-being and economic resilience.
We strengthen meaningful connections between people and the Ocean – fostering understanding, values and motivation that lead to pro-Ocean decisions and action.
Society is Supportive
Our Ocean is under increasing pressure from the demands of human activity.
Results from a 2025 UK nationally representative survey show public support for taking action and protecting our Ocean:
- 68% agreed the UK should commit more to protect the Ocean
- Nearly 60% of people would change their lifestyle in moderate ways, 30% of Labour voters saying they would change their lifestyle in big ways.
- Over 45% are willing to change that lifestyle due to the concerns for future generations.
- 68% agreed with the statement “Ocean protection is an important step my government can take for climate action.
Data from the international Ocean & Society Survey supported by the Ocean Conservation Trust.
50% of the Labour voters surveyed, think government need to take significant responsibility to address Ocean threats.
Mechanism for Change: Ocean Literacy
An Ocean literate society understands, values and cares for the Ocean and takes action for Ocean health. Going beyond knowledge about Ocean processes, it means understanding the relationship between the Ocean and our everyday lives, coupled with the capacity to make Ocean-positive decisions.
For decision-makers, this means recognising that Ocean health is not simply an environmental or coastal issue, a healthy Ocean is a cross policy enabler. Decision makers should support opportunities for people to build capacity to connect with the Ocean as an investment in human capital.
Our Call To Action
Canada and Wales have developed National Ocean Literacy Strategies, supported by government. In England, OCT is leading work with partners to develop an Ocean Literacy Strategy.
We have engaged 200+ people across diverse sectors to identify existing activity, gaps, barriers and opportunities. The co-created strategy is due to launch in 2027.
As a healthy Ocean is a policy enabler we call on government to:
- Support the development and implementation of National Ocean Literacy Strategies in the UK.
- Recognise the Ocean as a cross-cutting policy enabler – not simply an environmental issue.
- Support decision-makers to understand, value and care for the Ocean in policy and investment decisions.
- Put people and their connection to the Ocean at the heart of building resilient coastal communities.
For more information, click below:
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If you’re interested in working with us, contact: nicola.bridge@oceanconservationtrust.org or grace.clifford@oceanconservationtrust.org