Optimism for reversal of negative impacts if action is taken now. Scientists from every single inhabited continent agree ocean biodiversity is under threat but there is still reason for optimism if we act now to save it for the future, according to a new survey carried out by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) ahead of World Oceans Day (June 8) and the United Nations Ocean Conference (9 – 13 June).
Findings analysed by global insights and advisory consultancy GlobeScan showed over two-thirds of the almost 60 leading ocean experts consulted thought climate change was the greatest threat to ocean health and biodiversity, but overfishing and changes to habitats also ranked highly in terms of the impact they are having.
Despite worries about threats facing the ocean, almost half (45%) were optimistic, pointing to advances in science and policy as reasons to be hopeful for positive progress in protecting the oceans.
Scientists from countries ranging from the Solomon Islands to South Africa cited examples of global treaties and commitments as well as positive case studies of ocean restoration projects as ways in which ocean biodiversity could be protected from future harm.
However, respondents emphasised that international policies, treaties, and governance frameworks needed to go faster and further in their efforts to maintain a healthy ocean for future generations.
Survey respondent Dr Judy Mann-Lang of the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, in Cape Town, echoes the need for action: “The ocean is remarkably resilient – if we just give it a chance. But this will need a change in what most people value. So, to save the ocean (and ourselves) we need to change society and that will take everyone to work together.”
The upcoming United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France is expected to act as a catalyst for states to sign up to the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (also known as the BBNJ or High Seas Treaty). At least 60 states must sign the treaty, which aims to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, before it enters into force.
Ahead of World Oceans Day, the Marine Stewardship Council has released Preserving ocean life: How sustainable fishing supports biodiversity, a report showcasing a selection of positive case studies where fishers are using technology, tools and different techniques to minimise their impact on ocean biodiversity and protect marine life for future generations.
Peter Thomson, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean, author of the foreword of the report, said: “We know that sustainable fisheries operates best when we synergise the positive actions of governments, industries, local communities, and international organisations.
“These inspiring stories show that biodiversity protection and sustainable seafood production are two sides of the same coin. ”
Featuring fisheries across the globe, the report spotlights positive innovative changes they have made to protect endangered and threatened species, including seabirds in South Africa, turtles in the Indian Ocean, sharks in the Eastern Pacific and porpoise in the Celtic Sea.
Dr Beth Polidoro, Research Director at the Marine Stewardship Council said: “There is a general consensus from scientists across the world that our oceans are under threat from human impact whether that is through overfishing or the ongoing threat of climate change.
“What is positive, is that we are still in a place to change the trajectory, halt these negative impacts and ensure healthy oceans full of life for future generations.
“This new report demonstrates how sustainable fisheries are doing just that; fishing to feed people and provide the essential proteins for communities around the world whilst respecting and protecting the biodiversity of the vibrant ecosystems they operate in.
“Fisheries already demonstrating this commitment must be supported, and governments need to provide an enabling enivronment so that positive progress can be accelerated globally. ”
To highlight the role that sustainable fishing practices play in preserving ocean health, the global ocean not-for-profit, Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), is running a global, public awareness campaign with message: “Sustainable fishing means More” – that is more fish and life in the ocean for future generations to benefit from.
Feature Image: Taskforce MSC
