Introduction to Marine Ecosystems

The ocean is an intricate patchwork of co-existing ecosystems from which humans benefit in terms of food, energy, and keeping our planet habitable by regulating climate and absorbing nutrients from agriculture. Economists estimate the value of ocean assets at about US$ 24 trillion, in addition to the spiritual and inherent value in biodiversity. Human activities threaten ecosystems through pollution, overfishing, habitat loss, and climate change. One of the most promising possibilities to strengthen the ocean ecosystems is by reducing the nutrient load of rivers through nutrient pollution. There is a lack of coastal state power over the high seas, which requires international cooperation within the framework of the law of the sea. Concerted action and cooperation will be required to preserve marine ecosystems as part of SDG14.

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