The Unesco Courier (2021_1): Oceans: Time to turn the tide

Less than twenty per cent of the world’s oceans have been explored so far. That is not a lot. But it is enough for us to know that the oceans are threatened by global warming, acidification, and pollution. Coral bleaching is just one illustration of the decline of marine ecosystems. The consequences of these changes are not just environmental. Nearly three billion people depend directly on marine and coastal biodiversity for their survival.

The United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) gives us an opportunity to remind ourselves of these major challenges, and to share the innovative solutions that emerge. It is also intended to draw attention to the crucial role of research in improving our understanding of the ocean, and strengthening its resilience. Provided that it is given the means to do so.

• The UNESCO Courier, the flagship UNESCO magazine since 1948 is a platform for the dialogue between cultures and a forum for international debate.
• Bringing together well-known personalities, experts and artists, as well as journalists from different cultural and geographical horizons, it reflects the intellectual role of UNESCO, and its work around the world in all its domains of competence.