The ocean is changing — and not for the better. Established scientific evidence shows that it is becoming emptier, warmer and more acidic, putting marine life under serious pressure. But there is good news: Evidence also indicates that the ocean can regenerate, and the world has already agreed to enable that outcome.
The Sustainable Development Goal for the Ocean (SDG 14) was adopted by world leaders in September 2015 as part of the U.N. 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It includes vital targets, such as mitigating ocean acidification, securing habitat and species protections, reducing pollution substantially, and ending illegal fishing and subsidies that lead to overfishing.
Ultimately, SDG 14 promises to preserve the ocean and ensure its sustainable use in the future. But it can be realized only with bold and urgent action, buttressed by solidarity among governments, citizens and business.