A new report released by the WWF shows an alarming drop in marine biodiversity within the last few decades, with some species declining by nearly 75 percent.
From 1970 to 2012, marine vertebrate populations have been reduced by 49 percent due to population cut of fish species by 75 percent. Living Blue Planet reports also revealed a steep decline in seagrasses, mangroves and coral reefs that marine food webs rely on, offering valuable insight that people can use for effective environmental planning.
Caring for coral reefs is a particular concern because more than 25 percent of marine species live in them. Around 850 million individuals directly benefit from cultural, social and economic services provided by reefs not to mention, so losing them makes dramatic consequences for all involved
The biggest reasons for marine population decline are due to human activities which result to the destruction of habitat, overfishing and climate change. While the report shows a glum picture of the current state of the ocean, it also offers opportunities and solutions to improve marine conditions. Some of which include protecting critical habitats, managing fish stocks sustainably, improving fishing practices, and redirecting finances to support related initiatives.
Brad Ack, WWF senior vice president for oceans, reiterated that the abundance of opportunities that can reverse reported trends is good news, saying that protecting coral reefs, stopping black market trade, and striking a deal to reduce carbon pollution will go a long way towards the good of not just the ocean but the people who rely on marine life as well.
"Now is the time for the US and other world players to lead on these important opportunities," he added.
World leaders will meet later this September in New York to talk about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, offering a taking action opportunity for the international community.
According to Marco Lambertini, WWF director general, the ocean is a renewable resource which has the ability to provide for generations in the future - if problems are addressed right away and effectively. He explained that living within sustainable limits will allow the ocean to contribute to not just food security but to livelihoods and economies as well.
The full WWF report may be downloaded here.
Photo: Steve Jurvetson | Flickr
