Journal
Sea vs Ocean: What Is the Difference?
August 19, 2026
A sea is generally smaller than an ocean and often partly enclosed by land. See the geographic difference, examples and important exceptions.
Stories from the ocean
Journals
In-depth stories, explainers, and news about ocean science, education, policy, and the Mediterranean Sea Decade.
Journal
How Many Oceans Are There? The Five Oceans Explained
August 17, 2026
Most countries recognise five oceans: Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Southern and Arctic. They are named regions of one connected global ocean.
Journal
How Much of the Ocean Has Been Explored?
August 15, 2026
Only a fraction of the ocean has been visually explored, and slightly more than a quarter has high-resolution seafloor mapping. Learn why.
Journal
How Deep Is the Ocean? Average Depth and Deepest Point
August 13, 2026
The ocean is about 3,682 metres deep on average, while Challenger Deep reaches roughly 10,935 metres. See how scientists measure it.
Journal
High Seas Treaty: why its adoption is a crucial step for the future of the ocean
June 21, 2023
The High Seas Treaty has been formally adopted. Find out wha…
Journal
The Ocean&Climate Village catalogue is online
February 22, 2023
The catalogue dedicated to the Ocean&Climate Village…
Journal
Keystone species: the importance of a keystone species for the ecosystem
February 22, 2023
What are keystone species? What role do they play in the hea…
Journal
Whose ocean is it? The history of the Law of the Sea
August 23, 2022
“Whose ocean is it?” is a question we often ask ourselves an…
Journal
What is the Treaty for the Protection of the High Seas?
August 17, 2022
World leaders gather in New York to negotiate a treaty to pr…
Journal
What is bluewashing? How can we recognize it?
July 26, 2022
The term greenwashing is part of our daily life. But what is…