Ocean heat waves threaten marine wildlife, fisheries and livelihoods of millions of people

Pepe Clarke, Oceans Practice Leader, WWF International:  
 
“For decades, the ocean has helped to mask the harm of burning fossil fuels but with multiple heat records broken over the past few months, it’s clear nature is being pushed beyond its limits.

“Record temperatures are causing cascading impacts on marine ecosystems, from mass coral bleaching events in Florida to record low ice levels in Antarctica threatening krill populations. 

“This unprecedented disruption also carries serious consequences for the livelihoods of millions of people around the world who depend on a healthy and productive ocean.  

“Rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and altered ocean currents disrupt marine ecosystems, leading to shifts in important fish distribution and abundance. Coastal communities heavily reliant on fish as their primary source of income and food are particularly vulnerable.

“Incremental improvements are insufficient. We must urgently reduce carbon emissions and make the transition to a renewable energy-based economy. Human well-being and billions of dollars in the ocean economy depend on us reducing the pressure on our ocean.”