The five oceans of the world, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Southern and Arctic are all in trouble. Higher ocean temperatures, CO2 acidifying the seas and overfishing to feed world inhabitants has depleted fish populations. Pollution threatens all sea life and piracy undermines our security. Deep-sea mining threatens the bottom of the oceanic food chain and melting of the polar ice cap subjects those seas to exploitation. There is little effective governance by the world to combat this deteriorating situation. It is essential that we understand the role of oceans that cover 71% of the earth’s surface and hold 97% of the earth’s water.

Join the conversation on “Oceans at Risk” Wednesday, January 8, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Belfast Free Library. 

Rather like a book group, but requiring less preparation, the Camden Conference Discussion Series promotes thoughtful, engaged dialogue at each session around a set of  short articles and videos—some essential, others optional—that provide a context for conversation. The discussions are led by a facilitator from the local community.  The facilitator is not an expert but is a person whose role it is to help keep the discussion on track. Please click here for a complete reading list. A reading copy of the essential articles is also available at the library circulation desk. 

The 27th Annual Camden Conference, The Global Politics of Food and Water, will be held February 21 through 23, 2014. The mission of the Camden Conference is to foster informed discourse on world affairs through year-round community events, public and student engagement, and an annual weekend conference. For more information, visit www.camdenconference.org, email info@camdenconference.org, or call 207-236-1034.