Oceans and seas play a vital role in the context of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as they significantly contribute to the Earth's biosphere's health and the global economy. They are critical to sustaining life on earth, acting as a major source of food and oxygen while also serving as natural carbon sinks that mitigate climate change impacts. SDG 14, "Life Below Water," explicitly acknowledges the importance of conservation and the sustainable use of the world's oceans, seas, and marine resources.
Oceans absorb about 30% of carbon dioxide produced by humans, buffering the impacts of global warming. However, this process has implications such as ocean acidification, negatively impacting marine biodiversity and ecosystems. These impacts, coupled with unsustainable fishing practices and pollution, threaten the health of our oceans and seas. SDG 14 sets targets to prevent and reduce marine pollution of all kinds, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems, and regulate harvesting and end overfishing to restore fish stocks to sustainable levels.
Oceans also support economic wellbeing. Over three billion people depend on marine and coastal biodiversity for their livelihoods. By protecting oceanic ecosystems, the SDGs also support SDG 1, "No Poverty," and SDG 8, "Decent Work and Economic Growth." Furthermore, the oceanic routes are critical for global trade, supporting SDG 9, "Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure."
Furthermore, by implementing strategies for cleaner and more sustainable use of oceans and seas, it can also contribute to SDG 13, "Climate Action." For instance, developing and implementing new technologies to harness energy from waves and tides can promote renewable energy usage and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with SDG 7, "Affordable and Clean Energy."
Dynamic Aquaria (Fourth Edition) - Chapter 13: Community structure: Biodiversity in model ecosystems
Dynamic Aquaria, Fourth Edition: Building and Restoring Ecosystems and the Biosphere, 2024, pp 167-180
World Seagrass Day 2025 with SDG Resources
Nurturing the Oceans' Lifelines: Seagrass
Our planet's health and prosperity depend on the well-being of its oceans and marine ecosystems. Seagrasses, often overlooked, are vital in maintaining these ecosystems. World Seagrass Day is dedicated to highlighting the crucial role of seagrasses in our marine environments.
The Significance of the Day
Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology -Part A : Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Volume 284, October 2023