Life on earth would not be possible without oceans. They regulate the climate, provide oxygen necessary for the lives of most organisms on the planet and absorb carbon dioxide, thus alleviating the effects of the climate crisis. Complex ocean ecosystems are full of thousands of species of fauna and flora. They are also a source of food for billions of people and ensure the maintenance of many communities in different parts of the world.
However, our oceans are under growing pressure and to still fulfill their functions, they need actions on our part.
Threatened seas and oceans
Scientists agree that the biodiversity of the oceans is at risk. Such conclusions result from a study conducted among 58 leading Ocean experts1. Over two -thirds of them as the greatest threat to the health and biodiversity of the oceans indicated climate change. Scientists also paid attention to the problem of global overcoming and destruction of sea habitats.
The growing problem of the global translation is also confirmed by UN data, according to which it currently affects as much as 37.7% of commercially caught flocks of fish2. This percentage has increased more than three times since the 1970s, which shows the increasing impact of fishing on sea ecosystems.
The positive aspect is that we still have a chance to change this course, stop negative effects and provide future generations with oceans full of life. Despite the fears of the fate of the oceans, almost half of the scientists participating in the study (45%) expressed optimism, indicating progress in science and politics as reasons for hope for positive changes.
Ocean biodiversity has high resistance, unless it is physically destroyed, e.g. by too intense fishing or mining activities. Sustainable exploitation of sea ecosystems plays a key role in its protection, which allows you to combine the needs of people with attention to the environment. The growing international cooperation and the increase in social awareness are conducive to implementing effective solutions. However, further intensive activities are needed in this direction
– notes prof. Jan Marcin Węsławski, director of the Institute of Oceanology of the Polish Academy of Sciences.
Sustainable fishing mean more for the oceans
Sustainable fishing plays a key role in the protection of maritime biodiversity. Properly managed fishing not only allow you to maintain the fish population at a safe level, but also limit the impact on the entire sea ecosystem.
In many regions of the world, fishermen are already implementing innovative technologies and appropriate fishing techniques and methods to minimize the impact on sea life. Posted on June 5 this year. The MSC Preserving Ocean Life: How Sustainable Fishing Supports Biodiversity report shows specific examples of such activities. Restriction by 80% of the porpoise accommodation thanks to the use of acoustic pingers by the Cornwall Fisheries of Morszczuk, an increase to over 90% of the percentage of silky fakes released from the network thanks to the improvements introduced by fisheries of tuna in Eastern Pacific, or the use of special scoring lines, which allow you to reduce the mortality of albatros by 99% Morszczuk in South Africa – these are examples of numerous evidence that the responsible approach to fishing brings real results.
These inspiring stories show that the protection of biodiversity and responsible obtaining food from the seas and oceans can be two pages of the same coin. Currently, over 700 fisheries around the world are involved in the MSC program and perform hard work every day to make positive changes in the way of fishing. Obtaining their MSC certificate confirms that half are conducted in accordance with the most stringent, international environmental requirements
– comments Marta Kalinowska, Country Manager MSC for Poland and Central Europe.
What can each of us do for the oceans
Each of us – regardless of the place of residence or profession – can help protect the sea and oceans: just limit the amount of plastic used, segregate rubbish with care, and during daily purchases choose fish products and seafood with a balanced fisheries certificate MSC.
This blue sign gives us a guarantee that fish and seafood come from stable, well -managed fisheries, and fishing less affect the sea ecosystem. In this simple way, we not only make a conscious, good choice for the seas and oceans, but also support those fishermen who fish in a responsible way, respecting our environment.
Sea education through fun
World Ocean Day is also a great opportunity to interest the youngest by protecting the oceans. June 8 from 10: 00-18: 00 MSC invites all children to educational events organized at the ZOO in Warsaw, the Orientarium in Łódź and the Aquarium in Gdynia.
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