Erik Bogaard

Connecting People to Their Oceans: Issues and Options for Effective Ocean Literacy

While there is growing evidence of the importance of marine ecosystems for our societies, evidence shows also that pressures from human activities on these ecosystems are increasing, putting the health of marine ecosystems at stake worldwide. Hence, Blue Economy is becoming an important component of future socio-economic development strategies (e.g. this is called Blue Growth in Europe), that eventually can result in increasing pressures at sea, and despite the current regulatory framework (in particular with the Oceans Act, in USA or Canada, and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, in Europe), it is likely that this situation will continue in the future. Ensuring all those connected to the sea, directly or indirectly, gain a better understanding of the importance of the seas, the human-sea interactions and opportunities to act better and reduce impacts from human pressures, is central to Ocean Literacy (OL). Receiving increasing attention in Europe and USA, OL is a challenge for all parts of society: educators & trainers, children and professionals, civil society and scientists, consumers and policy/decision makers. It is seen as part of the package of solutions that will lead to a change in behavior and practice, thus reducing impacts and resulting in healthier marine ecosystems, whilst allowing development opportunities offered by seas are seized in a sustainable manner. This Research Topic focuses on the issues and options for effective OL worldwide. It discusses: (1) existing experiences in OL (formal and informal education for children, training for professionals, tools for raising awareness of consumers - and of investors in the marine sectors...) and their effectiveness (from understanding better to acting differently); (2) the role OL could play (in interaction with innovation, regulation, economic incentive, social norms...) to support human capital development as key component of sustainable growth; and (3) pre-conditions for effective OL for different sectors and target groups. Questions relevant to OL include: Which knowledge - produced by whom - to share and how? Who to target - and how to effectively reach those targeted? How to design OL initiatives - including by mobilizing those targeted (via living lab approaches e.g.) - to ensure effective OL and pave the way for behavior change? What are the knowledge gaps that limit our capacity to design effective OL? As scientists, it is likely you have many more questions to offer and discuss.

The Archaeology of Anthropogenic Environments

Mammal Safari Activity Book

This lively activity book is jam-packed with puzzles, crosswords, quizzes, mazes and word games about African mammals, as well as interesting facts and did-you-knows. Over 70 species feature – from the towering giraffe to the tiny naked mole-rat. Ideal for children aged 6–9 years, this colourful, interactive book strikes a balance between simple activities, such as find-the-way, spot-the-difference and odd-one-out, and more challenging brainteasers as children read on and learn about African wildlife. How do you tell a baby cheetah and leopard apart? Can you match the animals’ heads to their tails? Which mammals live underground? Which antelope are male and which are female? These riddles, and many others, are designed to ignite imagination of young minds while also providing hours of entertainment. Engaging and enchanting, the Mammal Safari Activity Book will take children on a wild adventure through the African bush – whether as a companion on safari or at home in their own dens. Sales points: Fun activity book that encourages learning and curiosity. Africa-themed; applicable to southern and East Africa. Packed with brainteasers and interesting facts. Vibrant design with ±300 photos of wildlife in action. Affordable price.