The ocean covers over 70% of Earth’s surface and is essential to life on this planet. It regulates climate, produces more than half the oxygen we breathe, provides food and livelihoods for billions, and harbors an immense diversity of life. Yet, human activity is pushing marine ecosystems to the brink. Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) — Life Below Water — calls for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources.

Marine pollution, especially from plastic waste, is one of the greatest threats to ocean health. Over 11 million tons of plastic enter the ocean every year, harming marine species, contaminating food chains, and even making its way into our bodies through microplastics. Nutrient pollution from agriculture leads to dead zones—areas depleted of oxygen—causing massive die-offs of marine life.

Overfishing is another major concern. Unsustainable fishing practices have decimated fish populations and damaged underwater ecosystems. Today, nearly one-third of fish stocks are overexploited. The loss of biodiversity affects not only marine life but also millions of people who depend on fisheries for food and income, especially in coastal communities.

Climate change further intensifies ocean stress. Warming seas bleach coral reefs, sea level rise threatens island nations, and ocean acidification—caused by carbon dioxide absorption—disrupts the growth of shellfish and coral. These changes are happening faster than marine life can adapt.

SDG 14 pushes for marine protected areas, stronger fisheries management, reduced pollution, and global cooperation in marine science and technology. Coastal restoration efforts—such as mangrove reforestation—help protect biodiversity and act as natural barriers against storms and flooding.

International frameworks like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the High Seas Treaty play a key role in ensuring nations work together to protect marine ecosystems beyond their borders.

Oceans don’t separate us—they connect us. Whether you live inland or on the coast, the ocean affects you. Healthy oceans mean a healthy planet. SDG 14 is a global wake-up call to act now—because there is no life on Earth without life below water.