Ocean Literacy, Climate Change and Health in Coastal Living Environments: A Scoping Review and Bibliometric Analysis (ScoRBA)

Abstract

This study examines the complex relationships between ocean literacy, climate change, and health in coastal living environments through a scoping review and bibliometric analysis (ScoRBA). Based on the PAGER framework, the research identifies four key themes: frameworks for coastal sustainability, connections betweenoceans and coastal areas, challenges to human health and well-being, and ocean literacy for conservation education and adaptation. A bibliometric analysis of 206 articles published between 2014 and 2023 showed a significant increase in research linking ocean literacy with climate change adaptation and coastal public health. Given the accelerating climate impacts on coastal environments and public health risks, urgent action integrates ocean literacy into adaptation strategies. Delays may cause irreversible damage to ecosystems and human health. The key findings of the current research highlight the importance of integrating marine environment management with human well-being, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study underscores the need for standardized metrics to assess the impact of ocean literacy on climate change adaptation and public health outcomes, as well as the significance of participatory approaches in coastal ecosystem management. The research implicates the necessity for climate change adaptation strategies that explicitly consider public health and the development of ocean literacy programs to enhance understanding of the interconnections between climate change and human health. Future research should focus on developing standardized tools to assess the impact of ecosystem services on coastal community resilience and explore tailoring ocean literacy programs to support climate adaptation and coastal health.