Cities and Oceans at the Crossroads of Knowledge, Ingenuity, and Co-creation

Abstract

Cities are extraordinary theatres of humanity at the crossroads of very diverse journeys, individual and collective, entrepreneurial, artistic and cultural, learning and creative, local and global. Port cities are reputed to be more open to innovation and trade, ideas and exchanges. The urban and ocean heritage, including also the underwater cultural heritage, are exceptional forms of human expression. The seas have often inspired scientists and citizens to invest ideas and energy in new scientific discoveries, entrepreneurial action, and cultural expression. Ocean-literate cities have a leading role in reinforcing the bond between cities and the blue planet. A sustainable city has to cultivate the seeds of freedom for science and the arts to bloom and to offer a space to all wishing to communicate and interact. Science and knowledge cities invest in education, innovation, and exploration of the seas, and in international cooperation for excellence. This chapter presents a spectrum of inspiring actions to reinforce urban intellectual and cultural capital and make citizens proud not only of their immediate environment but also of the faraway ocean ecosystems that inspire them and ask them to act as responsible citizens. It also explores the principles of ecosystem-based strategic planning for more forward-looking eco-designed policies in balance with the planet, on land and in the seas.

Watercolour 9 Toronto, a Welcoming Most-multicultural World Metropolis