We live on a blue planet, with oceans and seas covering more than 70 per cent of the Earth’s surface. Oceans feed us, regulate our climate, and generate most of the oxygen we breathe.
We can make a long list of how the oceans and marine life are important to us. Oceans cover more than 70 per cent of the earth’s surface. They contain 99 per cent of the living space on earth. Without this space for organisms to survive, there would be fewer phyla of animals on the earth. Perhaps this is the most important reason to protect the oceans to preserve the biodiversity of the Earth.We can make a long list of how the oceans and marine life are important to us. Oceans cover more than 70 per cent of the earth’s surface. They contain 99 per cent of the living space on earth. Without this space for organisms to survive, there would be fewer phyla of animals on the earth. Perhaps this is the most important reason to protect the oceans to preserve the biodiversity of the Earth.
They also serve as the foundation for much of the world’s economy, supporting sectors from tourism to fisheries to international shipping.
But despite their importance, oceans are facing unprecedented threats as a result of human activity. Every year, an estimated 8 million tonnes of plastic waste end up in the world’s oceans. At the same time, climate change is damaging coral reefs and other key ecosystems; overfishing is threatening the stability of fish stocks; nutrient pollution is contributing to the creation of dead zones; and nearly 80 per cent of the world’s wastewater is discharged without treatment.
UN Environment is tackling these challenges head-on. We work with governments, businesses, universities and civil society groups around the world to promote the protection and sustainable management of our precious marine and coastal environments. In doing so, we support the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, particularly Goal 14, Life Below Water.