Ocean protection is a global priority and crucial for Portugal, a country with extensive coast and notable Exclusive Economic Zone. This protection can only be achieved by increasing knowledge and integrated discussion on the great interaction existing between the ocean and humans, as well as on initiatives such as the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and its descriptors of Good Environmental Status (GES).

OceanLab proposes the creation of a specific experimental laboratory (the OceanLab) to receive young people, their teachers and family members at CIIMAR, leading them in a holistic approach to increase their Ocean Literacy. The program is dedicated to perform hands-on scientific experiments, putting young people into practice, in a laboratory context. Experiments are related to integrated management of the marine environment and maintenance of GES. OceanLab also organises science in the holidays weeks and open science events to the general public. OceanLab is supported by the “CIIMAR na Escola” programme and its associated Science Blog.