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The ocean's challenges are immense and no single nation or sector can tackle them alone. Three years into the , it is time to address key questions about its progress: What have been the main achievements since the launch of the Decade? What should be the key areas for action in the coming years? The , taking place in Barcelona (10-12 April), aims to enhance sustainable ocean management and foster science-driven innovation, with an inclusive approach that ensures no one is left behind.
鈥淚 believe fundamentally that nations have to work together to solve these big environmental crises, you cannot solve them on your own.鈥
Lewis Pugh was never afraid to take the plunge. Now ocean advocate for the United Nations Environment Programme, the record-breaking cold-water swimmer has completed long distance swims at both of the Earth鈥檚 Poles, in the Red Sea, and along the length of the Hudson River, to spread a message of habitat renewal and conservation.
Healthy oceans, seas and rivers are essential to supporting life on Earth - providing food, medicine, and acting as the world鈥檚 largest carbon sink. In this episode of Awake at Night, Lewis Pugh reflects on his love for the water, on his breathtaking swims, and onbreaking the diplomatic ice to create the world鈥檚 largest marine park.
International shipping transports more than 80% of global trade goods to people and communities all over the world. It is the most efficient and cost-effective method of transporting goods, facilitating commerce and helping to create prosperity among nations and peoples. World Maritime Day's theme for this year, , spotlights the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), which covers the prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational or accidental causes.
The waters that surround the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) of the Pacific are home to remarkable marine ecosystems. The fish and other marine species they host are deeply intertwined with many Pacific peoples鈥 cultures, livelihoods and food. But while the communities of these islands continue to consume fish in significant quantities, the diversity of Islanders鈥 diets is declining, and their nutrition is deteriorating. So, what are some new approaches and innovations that can help reverse this trend? A report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations () and WorldFish has some suggestions. .
During the , held during the , the crucial importance of action to protect the ocean was highlighted, as well as the need for the ocean to feature prominently in all relevant aspects of the process. The June Ocean Dialogue coincided with preparations for the upcoming in the United Arab Emirates at the end of the year, where the outcomes of the will be a key focus, along with other ways to increase ambition on climate change.
welcomes the new treaty on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction - known as 'BBNJ' 鈥 reinforcing efforts in line with the .
Cast as a sea villain, the shark is the most misunderstood creature in the ocean. As predators at the top of the food chain, sharks are essential for maintaining a balanced and healthy marine ecosystem. Realizing that shark numbers are sharply decreasing and driven by the necessity to find a solution to protect both humans and ocean life, SharkSafe Barrier technology was developed. Inspired by nature and supported by 鈥檚 Global Cleantech Innovation Programme, it is safeguarding both humans and sharks while paving the way for safer beaches.
The ocean covers over 70% of the planet, but only a tiny portion of its waters has been explored. Despite humanity鈥檚 utter reliance on it and compared to the breadth and depth of what it gives us, the ocean receives only a fragment of our attention and resources in return. Under the theme "", this World Oceans Day (8 June), the UN is joining forces with decision-makers, indigenous leaders, scientists, private sector executives, civil society, celebrities, and youth activists to put the ocean first. Join our UN event on 7 June (10-1:30 p.m. EDT) and .
Fisheries provide a vital source of food, employment, recreation, trade and economic well-being. With our growing population and persistent hunger, fish has emerged as an important commodity towards food security. However, efforts to ensure the sustainability of fisheries are being seriously compromised by illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing activities. To promote long-term conservation of fisheries FAO adopted the and later established 5 June as the International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing.
higlights why IUU fishing threatens livelihoods, exacerbates poverty, and augments food insecurity.
Fishing communities in Madagascar have seen their catches dwindle - a by-product of overfishing. But in some communities, fish stocks have start5ed to rebound thanks to small grants from .
A new landmark treaty to protect biodiversity in international waters has been agreed to 鈥 presents this interactive story of how the can advance progress towards the SDGs.
World Seagrass Day is observed on 1 March. The marine flowering plants, known as seagrass, found in shallow waters in many parts of the world are essential to the life of thousands of species of fish, seahorses, turtles, and others. They help improve water quality and play an active role in buffering ocean acidification. But they are disappearing. Protecting and restoring seagrass meadows will help countries achieve multiple economic, societal and nutritional objectives, like the Sustainable Development Goals, the and the .
is accelerating the mapping of marine species across some of the world鈥檚 most exceptional ocean places by combining science and education and working with local schools.