SEA LIFE
The future of marine societies
The oceans and seas are a fascinating world full of life, mystery and inexhaustible possibilities. From regulating the climate to providing livelihoods for billions of people, their importance to our planet is immense. Yet marine ecosystems face unprecedented threats from human activity. Our Institute is dedicated to a comprehensive approach to the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources, focusing on five key areas: biodiversity, sustainability, climate, economy and partnership.
Biodiversity
The biodiversity of the oceans is staggering - from microscopic algae to giant whales. Our work focuses on protecting this diversity, which is threatened by a range of factors including overfishing, pollution and climate change. We advocate for the creation of marine protected areas, fisheries regulation and measures to restore damaged ecosystems. We also support research and monitoring of marine biodiversity and seek to raise public awareness of the importance of the oceans to life on Earth.
Sustainability
Sustainable use of marine resources is another key area of our focus. The seas provide us not only with food, but also with valuable raw materials and potential medicines. We promote responsible fishing practices, sustainable aquaculture and seek alternatives to direct mineral extraction. We also focus on preventing and controlling marine pollution, which threatens not only marine life but also human health.
Climate
The oceans play a vital role in regulating the climate, but they are themselves vulnerable to climate change. Our strategy includes measures to mitigate and adapt to climate change in the marine environment. We promote reducing emissions from shipping and support the restoration of ecosystems that help to sequester the carbon.
Economy
The economic potential of the seas and oceans is enormous. We support the development of a sustainable blue economy that creates jobs and economic opportunities without threatening marine ecosystems. We focus on sectors such as sustainable fisheries, ecotourism and renewable marine energy. Part of this strategy involves creating comprehensive projects that support coastal communities.
Partnership
Given the global nature of the oceans, international cooperation is key to their effective protection and management. We support the creation of international agreements and initiatives aimed at protecting the seas. We emphasise regional cooperation, knowledge sharing and the involvement of all relevant actors in decision-making processes concerning the future of the seas and oceans.
