Why the Ocean matters

Oceans: the lungs of our planet

The Ocean produces more than 70% of the air we breathe. Its ecosystems are critically important for the balance and regulation of our climate. It provides food, livelihood and incomes for more than 4 billion people. That means almost 1 out of 2 persons directly rely on the Ocean throughout the world.

Dive into the IPCC special report on the Ocean

Coral reefs: cornerstones of marine biodiversity

Coral reefs are the epicenter of marine biodiversity. They spread on less than 1% of the Ocean seafloor, and they host 25% of all marine life. 1 billion people depend on them throughout the world, for food and incomes linked to tourism and fisheries.

Dive into the world of coral reefs

Mangroves: the Blue Carbon ecosystems

Mangroves are among the biggest carbon sinks: together with seagrass and salt marshes, they’re called “Blue Carbon” ecosystems. 1ha of mangroves absorb 5x more carbon than 1ha of terrestrial forests on average. They are also nurseries for biodiversity and protect neighboring villages from climatic disasters.

Dive into mangrove ecosystems