The sea, the source of life for our planet, is facing serious problems that threaten not only marine ecosystems but also life on Earth.
Here are the 10 most serious problems that we must know and address to protect our sea.
1. Plastic Pollution
Every year, over 8 million tons of plastic end up in the seas and oceans. Bags, bottles, fishing nets and microplastics accumulate, endangering the lives of fish, turtles and seabirds that often mistake them for food.
2. Climate Change
Global warming is causing sea temperatures to rise, rising by 1°C in some areas in recent decades. This leads to coral bleaching, alters marine habitats, and threatens sensitive species such as penguins and polar bears.
3. Ocean Acidification
As carbon dioxide increases in the atmosphere, the oceans absorb about 30% of the CO2 produced by humans, becoming more acidic. This damages the shells of mollusks, corals, and other sea creatures that depend on calcium.
4. Overfishing
Overfishing is depleting fish stocks in many parts of the world. According to the FAO, 34% of global fish stocks are overfished, putting species such as bluefin tuna and cod at risk.
5. Destruction of Marine Habitats
Coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds are declining at an alarming rate. Coral reefs, for example, have already lost 50% of their original cover due to pollution, coastal urbanization and destructive fishing techniques.
6. Toxic Waste and Chemical Pollution
Every year, about 1.3 million barrels of oil accidentally end up in the sea. In addition, heavy metals and pesticides accumulate in the food chain, poisoning not only marine life but also humans who consume fish.
7. Alien Species Invasion
Every year, about 300 new alien species are accidentally introduced into the seas. These species, such as the blue crab in the Mediterranean, compete with native species and alter natural balances.
8. Sea Level Rise
Over the past 100 years, sea levels have risen by about 20 centimeters and the rate is increasing. This puts coasts, cities and coastal habitats at risk, threatening over 600 million people living in coastal areas.
9. Coral Bleaching
Coral bleaching, caused by rising sea temperatures, has already affected about 75% of the world's coral reefs. This phenomenon reduces marine biodiversity and threatens communities that depend on coral for fishing and tourism.
10. Loss of Marine Biodiversity
Over the past 50 years, marine vertebrate populations have declined by approximately 49%. This decline is caused by pollution, overfishing and habitat destruction, reducing the resilience of marine ecosystems.
What Can We Do?
It is important to act to protect the sea. We can reduce the use of plastic, support sustainable fishing and adopt more ecological habits. The sea gives us oxygen, food and resources: taking care of it means protecting our future.
Source: wikipedia.org