Life Below Water

The world’s oceans—driving global systems that make Earth habitable—are crucial for humanity. Managing this vital resource is essential to counterbalance the effects of climate change. Over three billion people depend on marine and coastal biodiversity for their livelihoods, yet 30 percent of the world’s fish stocks are overexploited, reaching unsustainable levels. Additionally, oceans absorb about 30 percent of the carbon dioxide produced by humans, leading to a 26 percent rise in ocean acidification since the industrial revolution.

Marine pollution, largely from land-based sources, has reached alarming levels, with an average of 13,000 pieces of plastic litter found per square kilometer of ocean. This goal aims to prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution. It also seeks to sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience and taking action for their restoration.

Efforts focus on minimizing and addressing the impacts of ocean acidification through enhanced scientific cooperation at all levels. Enhancing conservation and the sustainable use of ocean-based resources through international law will also help mitigate some of the challenges facing our oceans. By taking these steps, we can ensure the health and sustainability of marine ecosystems for future generations.