Ostend hosted EMSEA Conference: Ocean Literacy returned to its European cradle

From 17 to 19 September 2025, Ostend was at the heart of European marine sciences. The EMSEA Conference (European Marine Science Educators Association) returned to Flanders after thirteen years, to the place where the movement of Ocean Literacy became firmly anchored in Europe. It was a natural choice, as Ostend is internationally recognised as a hotspot for marine science, not least thanks to the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ).

Ocean Literacy: from the US to Flanders

The concept of Ocean Literacy - the awareness and appreciation of the ocean and its influence on our daily lives - was born in 2002 in the United States. VLIZ played a crucial role in introducing it to Europe, notably by organizing the very first conference on the topic in Bruges in 2012. Since then, the movement has grown into a global network connecting science, education, and policy. With the 2025 EMSEA Conference, Ocean Literacy returned to Flanders, where it first gained a strong foothold in Europe.

Ostend as a conference city

The EMSEA Conference brought together researchers, policymakers, educators, and science communicators who aim to bring the ocean closer to the public. De Grote Post served as the central venue, while participants also had the opportunity to explore the field through thematic visits to research centres and maritime organisations in the region.

The programme - featuring lectures, workshops, and interactive sessions - focused on the future of Ocean Literacy in Europe and on how education can contribute to more sustainable ocean management. Themes such as climate change, biodiversity, and the role of the blue economy were given central attention.

International reach

Ostend’s role as host of this important European conference highlighted its international appeal as a conference destination. With its coastal location, its concentration of research and knowledge institutions, and its strong ties to the maritime world, Ostend was the obvious choice.

By attracting conferences like EMSEA, Ostend confirmed its ambition to further strengthen its profile as an international conference hub, particularly for events linked to the maritime sector and the blue economy. This fits perfectly within the city’s broader strategy to give knowledge exchange and the blue economy a prominent role.

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