UN Calls for Recognition of Ocean Heritage in Policy Actions
UN Secretary-General António Guterres opened the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France, with a powerful call to action regarding the state of the world’s oceans. He emphasized the critical role oceans play in sustaining life and supporting economies, while also highlighting the urgent threats they face from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Guterres urged nations to unite in their efforts to protect marine ecosystems and ensure a sustainable future for both the oceans and humanity.
The Importance of Oceans
In his opening remarks, Guterres underscored the oceans’ vital contributions to life on Earth. He noted that the ocean generates half of the oxygen we breathe and provides food for three billion people, while supporting the livelihoods of an additional 600 million individuals. The ocean economy has more than doubled in the past three decades, reflecting its significance in global trade, with maritime transport accounting for over 80 percent of commerce. Guterres described the ocean as the ultimate shared resource, essential for human survival and well-being. However, he warned that humanity is currently failing to protect this invaluable resource.
Challenges Facing Marine Ecosystems
Guterres highlighted the alarming decline of fish stocks due to overfishing and illegal practices, which threaten marine biodiversity. He pointed out that 23 million tons of plastic waste enter the oceans each year, choking ecosystems and harming marine life. Additionally, rising carbon emissions are causing ocean acidification and temperature increases, leading to the destruction of coral reefs and accelerating sea level rise. He stressed that if current trends continue, many coastal areas and island nations could face existential threats, including submerged land and destroyed livelihoods.
Call for Global Action
The Secretary-General called for immediate and coordinated action to address these pressing issues. He noted the progress made since the last UN Ocean Conference in Lisbon, including the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to conserve at least 30 percent of marine and coastal areas by 2030. Guterres urged member states to ratify the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction and to establish a legally binding treaty on plastic pollution. He emphasized the need for ambitious national plans that align with global targets, as well as increased funding for Sustainable Development Goal 14, which focuses on life below water.
Hope for the Future
Despite the challenges, Guterres expressed optimism about the potential for positive change. He cited historical successes, such as the recovery of whale populations following a global moratorium on commercial whaling, as evidence that restoration of marine ecosystems is possible. He called for a shift from exploitation to stewardship, urging nations to prioritize ocean health as part of broader climate and sustainable development strategies. Guterres concluded by expressing hope that the conference would lead to meaningful commitments that would ensure a thriving ocean for future generations, transforming the legacy of our ancestors into a sustainable future.
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