Environmental

UN Ocean Conference brings momentum and sets out clear actions for investors

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Key points: 

  • The ocean is vital to humanity but is in unprecedented peril from biodiversity loss and climate change
  • At a time when science and multilateralism are under threat, the UN Ocean Conference reaffirmed their central role in tackling these global challenges
  • The event marked a significant chapter for global ocean action, generating momentum and forging numerous commitments that must now be acted on
  • Developing a sustainable blue economy offers a vast number of potential investment opportunities, and will help secure the ocean’s long-term health and resilience
Written by
Benoît Galaup

We all depend on the ocean

The ocean and its biodiversity are critical for the planet’s health and our survival, yet it is facing unprecedented peril. It is the world’s largest ecosystem, covering 71% of the earth’s surface and hosts an estimated 80% of the planet’s biodiversity, while scientists estimate that around half of our oxygen is produced by the ocean1 .


The ocean, and its wider ecosystem, contribute approximately US$2.6trn to the global economy by supporting industries like fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, freight and renewable energy2 . At least three billion people depend on the oceans for their livelihoods, food security and wellbeing3 .


Oceans also play a vital role in mitigating climate change. They are the world’s largest natural carbon sinks, absorbing roughly 25% to 30% of global human annual carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and 90% of the excess heat from human activities4 . Ocean ecosystems also reduce disaster risks and help adapt to climate change – for example coral reefs, mangroves and underwater kelp forests, help reduce the damages caused by natural disasters.

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