Putting the "Good" Back in Oceans

The world's oceans are home to some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, but many have proven to be particularly vulnerable to environmental changes. Factors, including ocean acidification, pollution, overfishing, coastal development, and climate change, all threaten the health of these ecosystems.

As the Earth's population grows, there is an ever-increasing demand for resources causing the oceans to become an increasingly popular location for resource extraction, Unfortunately, this extraction can lead to unintended consequences, such as global warming.

The planet's oceans are exceedingly important to mitigating climate change. They can absorb carbon dioxide, cool the atmosphere, create jobs by harvesting renewable energy sources, and much more. Oceans are currently generating about 85% of the world's oxygen; they produce 50% of the Earth's food; and provide half of humanity with drinking water.

UK Research an Innovation has produced an Oceans For Good infographic in time for post-COP26 conversations on climate targets illustrating some of the many benefits we can glean from our seas.

Words by David Kneisler

Restore. Revitalize. Protect.