A better understanding is needed that we are now in an age when the impact of mankind on the ocean has reached unprecedented levels, provoking changes in the marine environment with immediate consequences for human survival. As it is important that a wide range of knowledge, skills, and judgment concerning the ocean is acquired by children as part of their schooling, I believe "ocean education" deserves to be recognized as an official part of the Curriculum Guidelines.
Selected Papers No.19

In the twenty years since UNCLOS came into effect, conflict of interests in the ocean have gained strength, unexpected situations and disputes have frequently arisen, and the delicate balance between coastal and user states introduced by UNCLOS has been upset here and there. The marine environment is an important part of the overall global environment, and how we manage marine resources and conserve the marine environment is the responsibility of the present generation towards those of the future. International cooperation is indispensable in the management of the oceans.

Observation work on the deck in the tropical ocean under the shining sun is a fight against heat and very hard on the body. However, contribution to research on climate change by great efforts to gather observation data is a strong motivation for observations. Also, from time to time, the tropical ocean and atmosphere make our fatigue disappear with its miraculous displays.