ocean literacy; enviromental education; sustainability; green education; schools
This chapter introduces Blue Education as a novel and interdisciplinary framework that reimagines environmental education by integrating aquatic ecosystems oceans, rivers, and lakes into its core. Addressing a longstanding imbalance in traditional environmental education, which has largely focused on terrestrial or “green” ecosystems, Blue Education draws attention to the ecological, cultural, and ethical significance of aquatic environments. It critically examines the colonial and anthropocentric assumptions that have marginalized marine and freshwater systems, advocating instead for an eco-centric approach that acknowledges the interdependence of all ecosystems. By weaving together insights from Ocean Literacy, traditional ecological knowledge, posthumanist thought, and the Blue Humanities, the chapter articulates a more inclusive and equitable vision of sustainability education. It also explores practical pathways for implementing Blue Education in formal and informal learning contexts, from curriculum design and community-based programs to global initiatives like UNESCO’s Ocean Literacy for All. Case studies and examples highlight how Blue Education can confront urgent environmental challenges such as ocean acidification and marine pollution while cultivating critical ecological literacy and stewardship.
Blue Education: Shaping the Future of Environmental Education
Giambattista Bufalino
Primo
2026-01-01
Abstract
This chapter introduces Blue Education as a novel and interdisciplinary framework that reimagines environmental education by integrating aquatic ecosystems oceans, rivers, and lakes into its core. Addressing a longstanding imbalance in traditional environmental education, which has largely focused on terrestrial or “green” ecosystems, Blue Education draws attention to the ecological, cultural, and ethical significance of aquatic environments. It critically examines the colonial and anthropocentric assumptions that have marginalized marine and freshwater systems, advocating instead for an eco-centric approach that acknowledges the interdependence of all ecosystems. By weaving together insights from Ocean Literacy, traditional ecological knowledge, posthumanist thought, and the Blue Humanities, the chapter articulates a more inclusive and equitable vision of sustainability education. It also explores practical pathways for implementing Blue Education in formal and informal learning contexts, from curriculum design and community-based programs to global initiatives like UNESCO’s Ocean Literacy for All. Case studies and examples highlight how Blue Education can confront urgent environmental challenges such as ocean acidification and marine pollution while cultivating critical ecological literacy and stewardship.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
