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The Citizen
11-06-2025
- Science
- The Citizen
Scientists say ocean health and biodiversity at a tipping point, new survey reveals
Climate change, overfishing and changes to habitats are the greatest threats to ocean health. Scientists from every single inhabited continent agree ocean biodiversity is under threat but there is still reason for optimism if we act now to save it for the future, according to a new survey carried out by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) this Ocean Month. Findings analysed by global insights and advisory consultancy GlobeScan showed over two-thirds of the almost 60 leading ocean experts consulted thought climate change was the greatest threat to ocean health and biodiversity, but overfishing and changes to habitats also ranked highly in terms of the impact they are having. Optimism for reversal of negative impacts if action is taken now Despite worries about threats facing the ocean, almost half (45%) were optimistic, pointing to advances in science and policy as reasons to be hopeful for positive progress in protecting the oceans. Scientists from countries ranging from the Solomon Islands to South Africa cited examples of global treaties and commitments as well as positive case studies of ocean restoration projects as ways in which ocean biodiversity could be protected from future harm. Picture: Supplied However, respondents emphasised that international policies, treaties, and governance frameworks needed to go faster and further in their efforts to maintain a healthy ocean for future generations. ALSO READ: Swimmers and sharks 'safe' after great white's death off KZN coast Collective action required to safeguard our shared ocean The United Nations Ocean Conference, currently underway in Nice, France, is expected to act as a catalyst for states to sign up to the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (also known as the BBNJ or High Seas Treaty). At least 60 states must sign the treaty, which aims to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, before it enters into force. Picture: Supplied Survey respondent Dr Judy Mann-Lang of the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, in Cape Town, echoes the need for action: 'The ocean is remarkably resilient – if we just give it a chance. But this will need a change in what most people value. So, to save the ocean (and ourselves) we need to change society and that will take everyone to work together.' To highlight the role that sustainable fishing practices play in preserving ocean health, the global ocean not-for-profit is running a global, public awareness campaign with the message: 'Sustainable Fishing means More' – that is more fish and life in the ocean for future generations to benefit from. WATCH: How sustainable fishing protects marine biodiversity NOW READ: Sights on oceans to revive economies in Africa
The South African
10-06-2025
- Science
- The South African
Scientists from every continent say ocean health and biodiversity at a tipping point, new survey reveals
Scientists from every single inhabited continent agree that ocean biodiversity is under threat, but there is still reason for optimism if we act now to save it for the future, according to a new survey carried out by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) this Ocean Month. Findings analysed by global insights and advisory consultancy GlobeScan showed over two-thirds of the almost 60 leading ocean experts consulted thought climate change was the greatest threat to ocean health and biodiversity, but overfishing and changes to habitats also ranked highly in terms of the impact they are having. Despite worries about threats facing the ocean, almost half (45%) were optimistic, pointing to advances in science and policy as reasons to be hopeful for positive progress in protecting the oceans. Scientists from countries ranging from the Solomon Islands to South Africa cited examples of global treaties and commitments, as well as positive case studies of ocean restoration projects, as ways in which ocean biodiversity could be protected from future harm. However, respondents emphasised that international policies, treaties, and governance frameworks needed to go faster and further in their efforts to maintain a healthy ocean for future generations. The United Nations Ocean Conference, currently underway in Nice, France, is expected to act as a catalyst for states to sign up to the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (also known as the BBNJ or High Seas Treaty). At least 60 states must sign the treaty, which aims to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, before it enters into force. Survey respondent Dr Judy Mann-Lang of the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, in Cape Town, echoes the need for action: 'The ocean is remarkably resilient – if we just give it a chance. But this will need a change in what most people value. So, to save the ocean (and ourselves), we need to change society, and that will take everyone to work together.' To highlight the role that sustainable fishing practices play in preserving ocean health, the global ocean not-for-profit is running a global, public awareness campaign with the message: 'Sustainable Fishing means More' – that is, more fish and life in the ocean for future generations to benefit from.
United News of India
07-06-2025
- Science
- United News of India
Ocean biodiversity under threat, says MSC survey
Kochi, June 7 (UNI) Ocean biodiversity is under threat but there is still reason for optimism if we act now to save it for the future, according to a new survey carried out by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) ahead of World Oceans Day and the United Nations Ocean Conference from June 9 to 13. The findings analysed by global insights and advisory consultancy GlobeScan showed over two-thirds of the almost 60 leading ocean experts consulted thought climate change was the greatest threat to ocean health and biodiversity, but overfishing and changes to habitats also ranked high in terms of the impact they are having. Despite worries about threats facing the ocean, almost half (45%) were optimistic, pointing to advances in science and policy as reasons to be hopeful for positive progress in protecting the oceans – a sentiment shared in the recently released documentary 'Ocean' with David Attenborough. Scientists based in countries from the Solomon Islands to Costa Rica and Finland to Japan said international policies, treaties, and governance frameworks needed to go faster and further in their efforts to maintain a healthy ocean for future generations and highlighted regional approaches to sustainable fisheries management that were already having a positive impact in turning the tide. Following the survey and ahead of the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France, the Marine Stewardship Council is emphasising support for states to sign up to the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (also known as the BBNJ or High Seas Treaty). At least 60 states must sign the treaty, which aims to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, before it enters into force. Dr Beth Polidoro, Research Director at the Marine Stewardship Council said, 'There is a consensus from scientists across the world that our oceans are under threat from human impact whether that is through overfishing or the ongoing threat of climate change." 'What is positive is that we are still in a place to change the trajectory, halt these negative impacts and ensure healthy oceans full of life for future generations." 'Fisheries already demonstrating this commitment must be supported, and governments need to provide an enabling environment so that positive progress can be accelerated globally.' The Marine Stewardship Council has also released Preserving ocean life: How sustainable fishing supports biodiversity, a report showcasing a selection of positive case studies where fishers are using technology, tools and different techniques to minimise their impact on ocean biodiversity and protect marine life for future generations. Peter Thomson, the United Nations Secretary-General's Special Envoy for the Ocean, author of the foreword of the report, said 'We know that sustainable fisheries operates best when we synergise the positive actions of governments, industries, local communities, and international organisations." 'These inspiring stories show that biodiversity protection and sustainable seafood production are two sides of the same coin.' Featuring fisheries across the globe, the report spotlights positive innovative changes they have made to protect endangered and threatened species, including pelicans in the Gulf of California, turtles in the Indian Ocean, sharks in the Eastern Pacific and porpoise in the Celtic Sea. UNI DS PRS
Time of India
06-06-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Climate change survey: Scientists from 19 nations warn of threats to ocean biodiversity
Thiruvananthapuram: Scientists from 19 countries, including India, are concerned about the growing threat to ocean biodiversity due to climate change, pollution and overfishing, according to a new survey by Marine Stewardship Council conducted in March this year. Fifty-eight noted ocean experts, including those from Kerala, participated in the survey conducted ahead of World Ocean Day on June 8 and United Nations Ocean Conference on June 9-13, said a press release. Rising sea surface temperatures and increased frequency of extreme weather events, including cyclones, are causing disruptions in the marine food web, thereby affecting coastal livelihoods. Plastic pollution is another worrying issue that has emerged as the biggest threat to marine ecosystems, the scientists said. According to the scientists who participated in the survey, a staggering amount of plastic debris, originating from human activities on land, is increasingly reaching the oceans. Marine scientists warned that this influx of plastic poses an escalating danger to coastal ecosystems and the livelihood of small-scale fishers, said the release. "It is alarming that around 5% of marine catch from coastal waters contains plastic waste," said Sunil Mohamed, chair of Sustainable Seafood Network of India and former principal scientist at ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Dosti™ Eastern Bay starting ₹2.83 Cr+* At Wadala, Mumbai Dosti Realty Book Now Flagging it as a grave issue to marine life, he called for stricter measures to tackle the menace through coordinated efforts of the public and govt agencies. "There is inherent resilience in ocean ecosystems, and hence good fisheries management and environmental care could greatly help to restore the ecosystems," he added. According to the state of world fisheries and aquaculture report, consumption of aquatic animals rose from 9.1kg per capita in 1961 to 20.7kg in 2022. Kerala is grappling with millions of plastic pellets that washed ashore from the sunken container ship MSC ELSA 3 along the southern coast, raising concerns of long-term pollution. Climate impact is another issue. Mohamed said, "Indian Ocean is rapidly warming, leading to disruptions in fish productivity, species distribution and the decline of some commercially important varieties." He is one of the three scientists involved in the global survey from India. Despite worries, the scientists are optimistic about the situation, pointing to advances in science and policy as tools in protecting the oceans. Dr Beth Polidoro, research director at Marine Stewardship Council, said: "There is a general consensus among scientists across the world that our oceans are under threat. A positive is that we are still in a place to change the trajectory, halt these negative impacts and ensure healthy oceans full of life for future generations. " Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Eid wishes , messages , and quotes !
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists stunned after witnessing unprecedented cascade triggered by common fishing practice: 'Collective memory loss'
The world's largest herring population has experienced an unprecedented 800-kilometer (497-mile) shift in its spawning grounds because of fishing practices that target older fish, according to a study in the journal Nature. Norwegian spring spawning herring have traditionally migrated up to 1,300 kilometers (808 miles) southward from northern Norwegian waters to spawn at the west coast, a journey that helps ensure better survival rates for their offspring. However, new research shows these fish have abruptly shifted their spawning grounds northward after heavy fishing pressure targeted older, more experienced fish that typically "teach" migration routes to younger generations. The research team found that when fisheries selectively harvested older herring, it created a "collective memory loss" within the population, disrupting long-established migration patterns. The change occurred when a large cohort of young herring emerged in 2016, when the population of older fish had plummeted by 68%. Without enough elder "guides," these young fish established their own, shorter migration routes that older survivors eventually adopted. This disruption in fish migration doesn't just affect herring. It impacts entire coastal ecosystems and communities that depend on these spawning events. When herring spawn in southern areas, their eggs and hatched larvae spread over larger areas during their northward drift, enriching diverse coastal ecosystems. Local predatory fish, endangered seabird colonies, and even coastal communities benefit from this natural energy distribution pattern along the Norwegian coast. The shift could lead to lower fish production over time, as the northward spawning areas may not provide the same survival advantages for young fish. For you at home, this could eventually mean fewer herring available in grocery stores and higher prices for this nutritious seafood option. The research also raises broader concerns about how current fishing practices might be disrupting important animal behaviors that have evolved over centuries. If fish can't pass down their migration knowledge, we may see similar problems affect other commercial fish species, potentially threatening food security for communities worldwide. Scientists are advocating for "longevity conservation" in fisheries management — namely, policies that protect older fish instead of focusing on overall population numbers. Maintaining a healthy age structure in fish preserves their collective knowledge and cultural behaviors. Do you think America has a plastic waste problem? Definitely Only in some areas Not really I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Some fisheries are already exploring finer-scale management strategies that protect fish at different life stages and locations, rather than treating entire populations as single units. If you want to help, look for seafood certified by organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council, which promotes sustainable fishing practices. You can also use seafood guides from groups like Seafood Watch to choose fish harvested using methods that minimize ecosystem impacts. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
