Why we must act now to ensure the future of the ocean and life on Earth

The Earth needs the ocean as life needs water. Covering more than 70% of the Earth's surface, the ocean is the planet's life-support system. Just as no life can exist without water, no sustainable future can exist without a thriving ocean.

The ocean regulates the global climate by absorbing vast amounts of heat and carbon dioxide and provides food and livelihoods for billions. It powers global trade and holds vast untapped potential for innovation and renewable energy. Understanding this dynamic and living system is not an academic pursuit, it is the foundation for protecting our planet’s future.

Science-based governance is the only path forward. The ocean’s intricate web of life and physical processes demands informed, evidence-driven action to safeguard its resilience and ensure its continued vitality.

In an era of accelerating climate change and mounting resource pressures, the ocean can be a powerful unifying force. It transcends borders, connecting people, nations and disciplines. This shared connection must be reinforced by public engagement and ocean literacy. When communities understand the wonders and the fragility of the ocean, they become empowered stewards of its future.

Intergenerational justice is a potent motivator. Our choices today will determine the ocean our children and grandchildren inherit. Recognizing this moral responsibility drives collective action.

The Asia-Pacific region, home to dynamic economies and populous coastlines, embodies the ocean’s critical importance and the scale of the challenges we face. Rapid economic growth has placed immense pressure on marine ecosystems, yet the region is stepping up.

China, in particular, is assuming a leadership role in global ocean governance. Through accelerated advancements in marine science, significant investments in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, large-scale ecosystem conservation and restoration and proactive engagement in international frameworks, it is demonstrating the bold, forward-looking action the world needs.

This year’s United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France, could not be more timely. As climate impacts accelerate and human pressures on the ocean intensify, the conference is a rare opportunity to galvanize global action.

It will convene policy-makers, scientists, business leaders, NGOs and community voices from around the world — all united by a single mission: to secure a healthy and resilient ocean for generations to come.

The conference is not just a forum for dialogue; it is a launch pad for innovation, collaboration and transformative solutions. With decisive action, the world can turn the tide and move towards a future where marine ecosystems and human well-being thrive together.

Ocean-based solutions are already making a difference. Sustainable fishing practices are helping restore fish stocks and strengthen coastal economies. Offshore renewables — wind and wave energy — are contributing to the clean energy transition and providing critical infrastructure for a sustainable marine industry. Advanced technologies, from satellite monitoring to AI-powered ocean health diagnostics, are enabling smarter conservation and more informed decision-making.

But risks of inaction are growing. Every delay brings us closer to crossing irreversible planetary boundaries or tipping points. Rising seas threaten coastal cities and entire island nations. Marine heat waves are bleaching treasured coral reefs. Pollution is degrading our precious marine ecosystems and the services they provide. Degrading ecosystems, in turn, puts food security and cultural identities at risk for millions.

Safeguarding the ocean requires an all-hands-on-deck approach. Governments must enforce science-based policies with unwavering resolve. Businesses must scale investments in the ocean, particularly in sustainable technologies, and embrace circular models. Scientists must deepen understanding and transform knowledge into solutions. And, individuals must act through mindful consumption, community support and advocacy.

Public engagement is key. Sustained political will only emerges when citizens demand leadership that matches the scale of the challenge.

Protecting the ocean is not just an environmental task, it is a moral imperative rooted in intergenerational justice. We are custodians of this irreplaceable planetary system. We owe it to future generations to act with urgency and ambition.

Asia’s emerging leadership offers more hope and momentum. By combining scientific rigour, innovative solutions and widespread public mobilization, we can create a bold, integrated global ocean agenda for the post-2030 era.

The 21st century must be the century when humanity rises to this challenge — when knowledge guides action and collective purpose secures a thriving blue planet for all.