UNESCO’s State of Ocean Report

Source: Down to Earth

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Context

• The UNESCO State of Ocean Report 2024 underscores the need for enhanced oceanographic research and data collection to address escalating ocean crises, including warming, acidification, deoxygenation, and rising sea levels.
• The report also highlights emerging technologies for marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) and restoration of coastal blue carbon habitats as potential solutions, while cautioning about the many uncertainties and challenges these methods present.

Details

Key Points

• Climate Change and Oceanography:
  • Examines the impact of climate change on ocean temperatures, acidification, and sea-level rise.
• Environmental Science and Technology:
  • Discusses the role of technological advancements in addressing ocean carbon dioxide removal and the associated challenges.
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
  • Aligns with SDG 14 (Life Below Water) focusing on conserving and sustainably using the oceans.
• International Cooperation:
  • Highlights the role of international organizations like UNESCO in fostering global collaboration for ocean research and conservation.
• Marine Ecosystems and Biodiversity:
  • Explores the effects of oceanic changes on marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

About UNESCO

Established in 1945

• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) aims to build peace through international cooperation in education, science, and culture.

Key Reports:

• UNESCO publishes various influential reports, including the Global Education Monitoring Report, World Heritage Report, and the Science Report, which provide insights into global trends and challenges.

World Heritage Sites:

• UNESCO designates and protects World Heritage Sites, recognizing their cultural and natural significance.

Man and the Biosphere Programme:

• Promotes sustainable development based on local community efforts and sound science.

Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC):

• UNESCO hosts the IOC, which coordinates global oceanographic research and monitoring.

Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)

Established in 1960:

• The IOC is a UNESCO body dedicated to promoting international cooperation in marine science and technology.

Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS):

• The IOC oversees GOOS, which monitors the state of the oceans and provides critical data for research and policy-making.

Harmful Algal Bloom Programme:

• The IOC runs this programme to understand and mitigate the impacts of harmful algal blooms on marine and coastal ecosystems.

Tsunami Warning Systems:

• Develops and implements regional and global tsunami warning systems to protect coastal communities.

Capacity Building:

• Focuses on enhancing the capabilities of member states through training, technical assistance, and resource sharing in marine science and observations.

Sources:

Down to Earth

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Evaluate mCDR & blue carbon restoration for mitigating ocean acidification. How can UNESCO foster international collaboration for this?