The Oceanographic Museum in Monaco has unveiled a groundbreaking exhibition, Méditerranée 2050, inviting visitors to envision the future of the Mediterranean Sea. Aimed at raising awareness about the environmental challenges facing this vital region, the exhibit showcases the potential for a thriving Mediterranean ecosystem by 2050, if conservation efforts are embraced.
Spanning over 1,000 square meters, the immersive exhibition takes visitors on a journey through space and time, from the Mediterranean's rich past to its potential future. It highlights the urgency of protecting marine life amidst rising threats such as global warming, pollution, and overfishing. The Mediterranean, which is home to 17,000 marine species, represents nearly 7.5% of the world’s marine fauna. Yet, less than 2% of its waters are currently protected.
The exhibition is divided into four thematic areas, each designed to engage and inspire action:
Oceanomania: The world’s largest marine curiosity cabinet, this section offers insights into the Mediterranean’s biodiversity and the history of its ecosystems.
Oceano Monaco: This segment highlights Monaco’s ongoing commitment to marine conservation, from Prince Albert I's pioneering oceanography to the modern-day initiatives of Prince Albert II. Interactive displays allow visitors to simulate managing a Marine Protected Area.
Oceano Odyssey: A futuristic view of the Mediterranean in 2050, showcasing a regenerated ecosystem where marine life flourishes due to successful conservation.
My OCEANO Med: The final stage encourages participants to engage in interactive challenges, allowing them to create their own Marine Protected Areas and explore sustainable solutions.
Visitors can also experience ImmerSEAve VR, a virtual reality dive into a Marine Protected Area, offering a firsthand look at the ocean’s beauty and the importance of its preservation.
The exhibition, which aims to inspire collective action, is now open to the public and runs until further notice. It’s a call to action for the Mediterranean's future—a reminder of our collective responsibility to protect its biodiversity.