31 March 2026 UK NDC workshop at the Ocean Advocate Summit 2026
On 26th February 2026, the UK NDC convened a workshop at the Ocean Advocate Summit titled 'Imagining the Ocean We Want', facilitated by members Aline, Michelle and Natalie.
The hour-long session explored public perspectives on the future of the ocean through participatory questions, discussions and activities. The workshop brought together a diverse group of 31 participants to reflect on priorities, challenges and opportunities for engagement within the UN Ocean Decade.
Photo: UK NDC member Dr Aline Da Silva Cerqueira facilitates the 'Imagining the Ocean We Want' workshop at the Ocean Advocate Summit, February 2026.
Workshop activities included a briefing on key aspects of the Ocean Decade (including the 10 challenges and 7 outcomes), sharing circles, small group discussions, and voting exercises, supported by ocean soundscapes to encourage sensory connections. Conversation was guided by three key questions:
Which Ocean Decade Outcomes matter most?
Participants consistently identified a healthy and resilient ocean as a top priority for the future, but stressed that this cannot be separated from social dimensions such as inclusivity, accessibility and cultural values.
What is included in the 'we' of the ocean?
Participants challenged the assumption that all people want the same ocean, noting that community needs will vary by cultural background, resource dependence, and societal values. Needs of future generations, non-human species, and the global community must be considered in ‘the ocean we want’ to promote equity, justice, and representation for all.
What does a thriving ocean look, sound or feel like?
Participants imagined a clean, colourful and biodiverse ocean, full of natural sounds and clear of visible signs or impacts of human activity.
Photo: UK NDC member Natalie Frost guides participants through the UN Decade of Ocean Science at the Ocean Advocate Summit, February 2026.
Key Takeaways
Ocean health is interconnected with social inclusion, access and engagement.
There is no single shared vision of 'the ocean we want'; perspectives vary depending on peoples' backgrounds, livelihoods and relationships with the ocean.
While participants expressed strong emotional connections to the ocean, many reported barriers to active involvement, including lack of knowledge, clear pathways, and opportunities to contribute.