The Okeanos Project

Abstract

The "Okeanos Project"is born from a Pacific folktale describing Earth drifting through the universe like a blue canoe. In July 2011 Pacific Voyagers of "Te Mana o Te Moana" joined with internationally famous scientists at the Kava Bowl Ocean Summit in Honolulu. This was a historic moment, a conference gathering in traditional Pacific fashion: sitting in small groups, sharing kava root together in symbolization of friendship, honour and collaboration. The scientists shared their latest findings on the state of the ocean, and the social, economic and environmental impacts of climate change. From this meeting, we imagined the Okeanos Project (previously called 'The Blue Canoe Project') - a unique, holistic vision that collectively addresses the social and environmental challenges small island nations are facing.