This goal focuses on conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources. As someone creating an app to inspire kids, I wanted to understand the challenges, goals, and current progress related to ocean conservation. Here’s what I found.
Why Are Oceans in Trouble?
Oceans cover over 70% of our planet and are home to incredibly diverse species. They regulate the Earth's climate, provide us with oxygen, and support billions of people through food, jobs, and transportation. Humans are damaging them at a huge level through a multitude of ways:
- Pollution: Around 8 million tonnes of plastic end up in the ocean each year. (That’s a bit like dumping a bin lorry into the ocean every minute)
- Overfishing: Unsustainable fishing practices are depleting fish stocks at a huge rate. Many species are on the brink of collapse.
- Climate Change: Rising ocean temperatures, melting ice caps, and ocean acidification are wreaking havoc on marine ecosystems, especially the fragile coral reefs.
- Habitat Destruction: Coastal development, mining, and trawling are destroying habitats vital for marine life.
The damage we’re doing is massive, but this SDG aims to rectify it.
What Are the Main Goals by 2030?
SDG 14 has ambitious targets. Here are a few highlights:
- Reduce Marine Pollution: By 2025, significantly reduce marine pollution, especially from plastics and other land-based activities.
- Protect Marine Ecosystems: Minimise destruction and ensure sustainable use of marine resources.
- End Overfishing: Regulate fishing to prevent overfishing and illegal practices, with a focus on small-scale fisheries.
- Protect Coastal Areas: Increase conservation of coastal and marine areas by 2030.
- Tackle Ocean Acidification: Strengthen scientific research to reduce the impact of climate change on the oceans.
How’s it going so far?