oceaanoceaan

oceaanoceaan is a neologism used in Dutch-language science communication to describe the idea that Earth's oceans form one vast, interconnected system. The term fuses the Dutch word oceaan with itself to emphasize scale and unity, rather than to indicate a literal compound geographic feature.

In its common use, oceaanoceaan refers to the functional connectivity among ocean basins. It highlights how surface currents, deep-water circulation, and the exchange of nutrients and organisms tie together ecosystems across thousands of kilometers. The concept also underpins discussions of global climate regulation, biodiversity, and the transboundary nature of marine pollution and fisheries.

The term appears in popular science writing, educational materials, and some research summaries to convey that management and conservation efforts must consider the ocean as a single system rather than as isolated seas. Critics note that the expression is metaphorical and may obscure regional differences in biology, governance, and physical conditions.

As a communication tool, oceaanoceaan aims to stimulate cross-border collaboration and integrative thinking about marine science, policy, and stewardship. See also global ocean, oceanography, marine conservation.