UN World Ocean Conference in Nice: Oceans in great danger!

UN World Ocean Conference in Nice: Oceans in great danger!

Nizza, Frankreich - On June 7th, 2025, the third UN World Ocean Conference opened in Nice, organized by France and Costa Rica. The conference aims to make decisive progress under the protection of the oceans. In this context, climate researcher Mojib Latif emphasizes the immense importance of the oceans for the survival of mankind. These waters act as important buffers against global warming by absorb more than 90% of the heat produced by greenhouse gases, so fr.de .

The heating of the sea surfaces and the deep layers up to 2000 meters are now detectable. In addition, the oceans take up a quarter of the global CO₂, with another quarter of land space being absorbed. The CO₂ recording is carried out by two main mechanisms: the chemical pump, in which CO₂ is solved in the water, and the biological pump, which describes the active handling of marine organisms with CO₂. However, Latif warns that with increasing water temperature, the solubility of CO₂ decreases, which weakens the chemical pump.

ocean acidification and its consequences

The acidification of the oceans, a direct result of CO₂ emissions, has profound consequences for marine organisms, especially limestone species. According to Environmental Bundesamt.de , the pH value of the sea water has fallen from 8.2 to 8.1, and it is forecast that it is forecast by the end of the 21st century 0.3 to 0.4 units could go back. This has a direct impact on the lime formation of many sea creatures.

climate change and the associated ocean acidification not only endanger the biodiversity of the marine ecosystems, but also bring economic challenges. Changes in the composition of species and the loss of biodiversity could negatively affect fishing and aquacultures. In addition, the warming of the oceans leads to more frequent and more intensive weather events that also leave traces in Germany.

need for action and international cooperation

Latif calls for comprehensive measures against climate change and overfishing. This includes sustainable fishing, the establishment of protected areas and international cooperation to maintain the seas. Organizations and NGOs are committed to ensuring that 30% of the oceans will be protected by 2030. Combating ocean acidification also requires immediate measures, such as reducing CO₂ emissions to protect the marine habitats. The loss of coastal habitats also has direct socio -economic effects on coastal communities, which underlines the urgency of measures.

The contribution of each individual is also crucial: by avoiding cruise tourism and conscious consumption, individuals can actively contribute to protecting the oceans. The coming days of the conference in Nice could thus provide decisive impulses to save the oceans.