Ocean emergency
Our ocean is at a tipping point. We are fighting to turn the tide and restore its health.
Our ocean covers over 70% of our planet. It provides more than half the oxygen we breathe and absorbs nearly a third of our carbon emissions.
But today, it’s in crisis. Right now, we’re polluting our waters and destroying precious habitats. We're harming the species that live there. It’s reducing the ocean's ability to help fight the climate crisis.
We’re determined to change this. Together with communities, businesses and governments, we can make a difference.
Our goal is to recover the health of our ocean.
Every year, between 8 and 13 million tonnes of plastic enters our ocean. In fact, some areas of the ocean floor now have 1.9 million plastic pieces per square metre.
A third of our seas are called ‘protected’ – but they’re not; in practice, less than 1% of our seas are well-managed.
Every day, valuable species and habitats that capture and store carbon are being destroyed.
Ocean pollution
Pollution has been reported to be one of the five main drivers of the current biodiversity crisis, threatening 37% of marine mammals with extinction.
Climate change and the ocean
Climate breakdown presents one of the greatest challenges in human history. We must act now to avoid catastrophe.
Marine biodiversity
Marine biodiversity is critical for a healthy planet and sustainable development. In marine terms, biodiversity encompasses anything under the waves - mammals to sea slugs, oysters to seagrass and everything in between.
Habitat damage
Underwater national parks, commonly called Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), act as sanctuaries for rare or threatened animals, plants and landscapes. These habitats are a vital tool in safeguarding our ocean's future.
Sustainable seafood
Today, 90% of world fish stocks are fully or over-exploited from fishing. With added pressure from climate change and pollution, we’re moving into dangerous waters. Join us in making seafood more sustainable.
People and the sea
It’s official! Time by the coast and sea – in blue space – makes us feel happier and healthier. Research has shown that time by the sea brings real benefits for people’s health and wellbeing.
Ocean Facts and stats
From devastating stats on plastic in our seas to fascinating facts about species, find out more about the ocean and the work we're doing.
