The ocean, covering over 70% of the Earth’s surface, produces over half of the world’s oxygen, regulates climate, and provides valuable habitat to a variety of marine and coastal species. It also supports the global economy and local livelihoods, and provides a means for transportation and trade. Climate change, pollution, industry, coastal development, and other human activities are major threats to ocean and coastal health. The IUCN World Conservation Congress in Marseille will tackle the theme of ocean health, and the need for marine conservation and restoration for protecting the blue planet that we all rely on. |
