Is the ocean the real final frontier? Humans have a greater understanding of the surface of the moon than they do of the depths of these waters. But what we know of the ocean proves it hosts a wealth of opportunity – connecting the world; supporting important and basic economic, cultural and environmental functions – despite being under significant threat. Stressed by unsustainable lifestyles and the increasing demands of a growing global population, how do we become good stewards of this massive natural resource?
In this course, learn from the world's leading experts on ocean science. They will present the issues and potential solutions – grounded in rigorous scientific research – to fight for our endangered waters.
This course is for:
Those who loved Planet Earth and The Blue Planet.
Sustainable development practitioners who need a science-based overview of preservation and conservation of the oceans and the ecosystems they support
Private-sector actors – such as those who work in corporate sustainability and responsibility, energy, fishing and other industries connected to the oceans – who are interested in understanding the sustainable interaction of their field with these resources
Graduate students and advanced undergraduate students studying oceanography, environmental science, environmental law, sustainable development, sustainable business and related fields
Climate change activists or practitioners interested in the current science and governance of ocean use and preservation
Syllabus
Module 1: One Planet – One Ocean
The Ocean MOOC
The Ocean: A finite resource
Concepts of Sustainability
Economic Models of Sustainability
Governing Global Commons
Values and Attitudes to the Ocean
From Science to Solutions
Module 2: Coasts
Coastal Systems
Influences from Land: Deltas under Pressure
Influences from the Ocean: Coastal Hazards
Threats from the Sea Bed
Coastal Ecosystems
Ecosystem and Nutrient Management
Coastal Solutions: Ecosystem-based Management
Future of our Coasts
Module 3: Marine Ecosystems
Dance of the plankton
Marine Ecosystem Change and Services
Valuing Ocean Assets
Resilience and Adaptation in the Ocean
Alien Species Migrations and Range Shifts
Ocean Plastic A) - Where is it?
Ocean Plastic B) - What to do about it?
Marine Spatial Planning
Module 4: Fisheries and Aquaculture
Marine Food Chains
Aquaculture and Mariculture
Fisheries Economics and Management
Sustainable Management of Fisheries
From Attitude to Action
Module 5: Marine Life and Minerals
Ocean Evolution
Evolution and Marine Diversity
Life in the Deep Sea
Non-Renewable Ocean Resources
Seafloor Resources: Energy and Minerals
Ocean Exploration and Sustainable Use of Marine Resources