Europe Asia News

UNEP assessed the impact of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution on blue ecosystems.

The assessment said coastal areas, which are home to 40 percent of the world’s population and 12 of the world’s 15 largest cities, are under pressure from intensive human activity and the triple planetary crisis of pollution, biodiversity loss and climate change. It said only 15 percent of coastlines remain in a natural state.

Blue ecosystems, which encompass aquatic ecosystems, were described as critical for communities, employment, the global economy, food security and climate resilience. The assessment said these ecosystems play an important role in achieving the Global Biodiversity Framework and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Highlighting the ocean’s role as a major carbon and heat sink, the assessment said the oceans absorb more than 90 percent of excess heat in the atmosphere and 30 percent of human-caused carbon dioxide emissions.

It noted that the ocean economy contributes more than 1.5 trillion dollars annually to the economy and supports diverse cultures and economies.

Healthy blue ecosystems were said to protect economic assets, enrich biodiversity and strengthen the resilience of the planet and societies.