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Home › Ocean Advocacy › #thinkocean › Why Is the Ocean Important?

Why Is the Ocean Important

The Ocean is a vital lift support system. Everything that we rely on in our day to day lives leads back to it

The Ocean is the foundation of all life, an extraordinary and largely unexplored place, teeming with fascinatingly diverse plants and animals which, together with currents and natural systems, shape our planet. The Ocean provides us with food and facilitates pleasure, as well as livelihoods for millions, if not billions of people.

But the Ocean is not just a commodity. The Ocean is restorative. It calms and connects us. The positive impact it can have on our wellbeing is immense.

Our relationship with the Ocean

From mermaids to the kraken, the Ocean has been fascinating humans for centuries. It is difficult to imagine what it must have been like to set off across the Ocean without knowing ‘what was on the other side’, or even if you might fall off of the world!

There a millions of works of art, poetry and fictional stories written about the sea, as well as religions and worship of the gods of the Ocean in communities across the world. One of our favourite quotes is:

“We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch – we are going back from whence we came.” John F. Kennedy

All life on earth started in the Ocean, so JFK’s quote is technically correct for us all. The salt content of our blood is remarkably similar to the Ocean and when our Neanderthal relatives started to fish, the addition of Omega 3 intp their diets helped to increase their brain function, thus directly affecting our evolution as a species.

We truly are tied to the Ocean. We must take care of it, because it is us.

The Ocean is a part of all of our daily routines, sometimes in ways that you might find surprising.

It doesn’t matter where you live – whether you’re near a beach, in the countryside, or in the middle of a big city – the Ocean still has a profound affect on your life, every single day.

When you turn on your tap in the morning to brush your teeth, the water you use, as well as the algae in your toothpaste, comes from the Ocean.

When you watch TV or use the internet, some of the materials used to make that happen have come from the Ocean.

When you buy your favourite foods at the supermarket, many of those have been shipped over to the UK, via the Ocean.

The Science Bit

Right from the word go, we rely to the Ocean to just breath. 50% of life-giving Oxygen comes from the Ocean. Tiny plankton and the Ocean’s plants absorb CO 2 and through a process called photosynthesis and release O 2 back into the atmosphere. So every time you breathe, half of the oxygen you take in has come from the Ocean – so we literally need it to survive.

Weather and climate

The Ocean drives our weather and climate. In fact, 98% of the heat from the sun’s rays are absorbed by the Ocean. This heat is then moved around the earth via currents, so the warm water at the equator is moved around the earth, up to the poles.

Water Cycle

The Ocean plays a key part of the water cycle. When the sun shines and the warm currents heat the Ocean, water evaporates. This not only forms clouds but also increases the air temperature and the humidity… creating weather. The clouds then get blown back over the land, then it rains, and this water is used by every living thing on the planet before making its way back to the Ocean. Without this process, most of our planet would be desert.

Food for us

The Ocean provides protein to nearly 3 billion humans and every plant, vegetable and animal has grown though access to water produced through the water cycle driven by the Ocean. So, everything you eat is connected to the Ocean.

Food for the animals we eat

Statistics vary on how much fish meal is fed to the pigs, cattle and poultry we consume, but some scientists say that up to one third of all fish harvested from the Ocean is turned into food for farmed animals. Another way that we are connected to the Ocean via the food chain.

Human health and wellbeing

So, the Ocean gives us life – that is undeniable. But it also impacts our quality of life. Studies show that being in, on, near or under the Ocean can make us happier, healthier, more connected and better at what we do.

• Ocean biodiversity: The movement of gentle Ocean waves and fish in an aquarium is known as Heraclitean Motion. These peaceful, repetitive movements are psychologically calming
• Reduces stress: Studies have shown that people perceive nature as a positive, and spending time amongst it is known to improve mood
• Improved health and wellbeing: various studies have shown improved mental and physical health in those who spend time near the coast
• Therapeutic landscape: studies show that people prefer to look at scenes that contain blue and green elements (but more blue is favoured)
• Relaxation: When swimming, breathing patterns affect the brain and increase positive hormones
• Revitalisation: Negative ions (electrically charged particles that float in the atmosphere) are abundant by the sea. Breathing sea air gives us an energy boost.
• Ocean sounds: The sounds of waves support meditation techniques
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Why is the Ocean so important?

Every second breath you take comes from the Ocean. It controls the climate & provides valuable resources. Here’s why the Ocean is important.

Introducing the Ocean : Our most precious , life-giving , climate – regulating , yet recklessly exploited, undervalued, and underfunded resource .  

Covering over 70% of our blue planet and holding roughly 97% of the world’s water, the Ocean provides the foundation for all living things. From the smallest plankton to the largest animal to have ever lived (the blue whale ). And that’s just the beginning of why the Ocean is important. Energy is cycled across its single, interconnected system; keeping everything in balance. It allows all life to exist together in harmony. 

The Ocean makes up over 90% of all habitable space on Earth .   

Just think about that. All the rainforests, grasslands, mountain ranges and deserts combined with every town, city and village of human civilisation make up less than 10% of the liveable space on our planet.   Everything else is Ocean.   

An Ocean which is home to the world’s largest mountain range (the Mid Ocean Ridge is over seven times longer than the Andes). And the world’s deepest canyon. (Challenger Deep is six times deeper than the Grand Canyon and could easily swallow Mount Everest.)  This vast, interconnected body of water exists on a scale so large that it’s almost beyond the realm of our understanding.  But we need to understand why the Ocean is important.  

The Ocean defines our planet and provides the very foundation of our existence .   

If it could talk, the Ocean would be able to tell us all about the dinosaurs, the ice age, and how Stonehenge or Egypt’s pyramids were really built . The Ocean watched as the earliest Homo Sapiens (that’s us) took our first footsteps. It may even hold the secrets to the very beginning of life on Earth.  

To look back at the history of the Ocean is to look back at the history of life itself.   For millions of years, the Ocean has provided the conditions required for the evolution of all living things. The Ocean burst into life during the Cambrian explosion (the *relatively* sudden radiation and divergence of complex life forms) around 538.8 million years ago and has seen all five mass extinction events since.  Make that six.   At this very moment, we are living through the sixth mass extinction event. Research shows that species are now going extinct between 100 and 1,000 times faster than natural, background extinction rates.   The delicate balance of life which has been slowly ticking along for millions of years has taken decades to unravel.   According to the IUCN Red List, over 44,000 assessed species are threatened with extinction.   It’s almost impossible to comprehend that we are hurtling towards destruction on a scale comparable to that caused by a colossal asteroid collision 66 million years ago. (That, the last mass extinction event, wiped out the dinosaurs).   

Except this time, humanity are both the asteroid and the dinosaurs .  

Is the Ocean too vast to feel our impact ?  

People used to think the Ocean existed on such an infinite, untouchable scale that nothing we, people, could do would affect its limitless bounty.  

“Man marks the earth with ruin – his control stops with the shore…” – Lord Byron, Nineteenth Century.

We now know that this is wrong.   Throughout the last decades, our Ocean has been heating up. It’s becoming more acidic, choking in plastic , drained of its fish stocks, and pumped with toxic chemicals at a rate far beyond which it can sustain.   We have borne witness to record breaking temperatures, mass coral-bleaching and glacial melting events. Now, we are hurtling towards a ‘new normal’ in which instability and volatility are centre stage. 

We have been recklessly exploiting our Ocean system.  

We have watched as records are broken time and time again.   But in 2023 , the Ocean temperature record wasn’t just broken, it was absolutely obliterated.   In fact, the entire upper 2000m of the Ocean experienced shatteringly high temperatures. As this surface layer heats up, it’s less able to mix with deep water below. As a result, surface oxygen content has decreased.  

This isn’t only detrimental to marine ecosystems, but it also slows the Ocean’s life-saving ability to sequester (remove and store) atmospheric carbon dioxide.   The global water cycle has also been amplified by our warming Ocean. For us on land, this means stronger, longer droughts as well as intensified rainfall, storm, and flooding events.  

Restoring the Ocean starts on land – with us .

Just like how people once thought the Ocean was too large to feel our impacts. Now, it may seem like our impacts are too large to solve. But we know this isn’t true.   We have the technology, the knowledge, and the power to turn the tide and reverse our trajectory.  We know this because we’re in many parts of the world, it’s already happening.   Effectively managed Marine Protected Areas , Maximum Sustainable Yields (the maximum catch size that can be removed from a population to maintain a healthy and sustainable fish stock), and the rise in renewable energy technologies are all ways in which humanity has learned to collaborate more fairly with nature.  

Working with the Ocean rather against it can reap limitless benefits for both people and planet. If the Ocean thrives, so do we. This knowledge is power.   Power to be part of the solution, to consider the cost of inaction and unite to ensure our Ocean’s health is considered in all decisions – personal, business, and government policies.   We have a unique opportunity to be the first generation to leave our precious Ocean in a better state than we found it. 

Your actions may feel like a drop in the Ocean , but together we can make waves of change .  

Start by signing up to our newsletter and reading about 15 climate actions you can take to restore our Ocean. Learn more about why the Ocean is important by adding it to your scroll via your favourite social platform:

Related content

Are hydrothermal vents the origin of life on Earth? 

Interesting animals that use bioluminescence in the deep ocean.  , what happens after a whale dies life after death in the deep-sea, the history of earth day and practical actions you can take .

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Why should we care about the ocean?

Our ocean provides countless benefits to our planet and all the creatures that live here..

Our world ocean provides many benefits. Here are just a few examples. Want more? Browse through our pool of more than 300 ocean facts . With topics ranging from the ocean economy to microplastics to hydrography and even the depth of the ocean, there's sure to be a fact for everyone! Download this graphic and share it!

The world ocean provides so many benefits. Here are nine things the ocean does for humans and the planet:

• Climate regulation: Covering 70 percent of the Earth's surface, the ocean transports heat from the equator to the poles, regulating our climate and weather patterns.
• Transportation: Seventy-six percent of all U.S. trade involves some form of marine transportation.
• Recreation: From fishing to boating to kayaking and whale watching, the ocean provides us with many unique activities.
• Economic benefits: The U.S. ocean economy produces $282 billion in goods and services and ocean-dependent businesses employ almost three million people.
• Food: The ocean provides more than just seafood; ingredients from the sea are found in surprising foods such as peanut butter and soymilk.
• Medicine: Many medicinal products come from the ocean, including ingredients that help fight cancer, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, and heart disease.

We have ocean videos, too!

Visit Ocean Today for more than 100 videos on all aspects of the ocean realm—exploration and discoveries, marine life, science, and more.

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• Ocean Exploration Facts

Why do we explore the ocean?

Exploration is key to increasing our understanding of the ocean, so we can more effectively manage, conserve, regulate, and use ocean resources that are vital to our economy and to all of our lives..

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We explore the ocean because it is important to ALL of us. Thanks to game-changing technological advancements, we can now look into the ocean like never before. But exploration can only be achieved through cooperation and collaboration, such as the partnership between the NOAA Ocean Exploration, Schmidt Ocean Institute, and Ocean Exploration Trust. Video courtesy of the Schmidt Ocean Institute. Download larger version (mp4, 225 MB) .

Despite the fact that the ocean covers approximately 70% of Earth’s surface and plays a critical role in supporting life on our planet, from the air we breathe and the food we eat to weather and climate patterns , our understanding of the ocean remains limited .

Ocean exploration is about making discoveries, searching for things that are unusual and unexpected. As the first step in the scientific process, the rigorous observations and documentation of biological, chemical, physical, geological, and archaeological aspects of the ocean gained from exploration set the stage for future research and decision-making.

Through ocean exploration, we collect data and information needed to address both current and emerging science and management needs. Exploration helps to ensure that ocean resources are not just managed, but managed in a sustainable way, so those resources are around for future generations to enjoy. Exploration of the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone is important for national security, allowing us to set boundaries, protect American interests, and claim ocean resources.

Unlocking the mysteries of ocean ecosystems can reveal new sources for medical therapies and vaccines, food, energy, and more as well as inspire inventions that mimic adaptations of deep-sea animals. Information from ocean exploration can help us understand how we are affecting and being affected by changes in Earth’s environment, including changes in weather and climate. Insights from ocean exploration can help us better understand and respond to earthquakes, tsunamis, and other hazards.

The challenges met while exploring the ocean can provide the impetus for new technologies and engineering innovations that can be applied in other situations, allowing us to respond more effectively in the face of an ocean crisis, such as an oil spill. And, ocean exploration can improve ocean literacy and inspire young people to seek critical careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

As a species, humans are naturally inquisitive — curiosity, desire for knowledge, and quest for adventure motivate modern explorers even today. And if all of these examples don’t provide enough reasons to explore the ocean, well, ocean exploration is also just cool (if you need it: proof ).

NOAA Ocean Exploration is a federal organization dedicated to exploring the unknown ocean, unlocking its potential through scientific discovery, technological advancements, and data delivery. By working closely with partners across public, private, and academic sectors, we are filling gaps in our basic understanding of the marine environment. This allows us, collectively, to protect ocean health, sustainably manage our marine resources, accelerate our national economy, better understand our changing environment, and enhance appreciation of the importance of the ocean in our everyday lives.

Related Education Materials

To Boldly Go

Grade Level: 6-8 Focus: Science/Technology

Students use learning shapes to explore modern reasons for ocean exploration including: climate change, energy, human health, ocean health, research and exploration, technology and innovation, underwater cultural heritage, and ocean literacy. This lesson can be used to acquaint students with the concept of ocean exploration and build a foundation for additional lessons.

Why Do We Explore the Deep Ocean? (pdf, 722 KB)

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Ocean exploration matters.

Why the Ocean Matters

A healthy ocean means a healthy planet!

Biology, Earth Science

With every breath we take, every drop we drink, we're connected to the ocean . Our planet depends on the vitality of the ocean to support and sustain it. But our ocean faces major threats: global climate change, pollution, habitat destruction, invasive species, and a dramatic decrease in ocean fish stocks. These threats to the ocean are so extensive that more than 40 percent of the ocean has been severely affected and no area has been left untouched. Consequently, humanity is losing the food, jobs, and critical environmental services that a healthy ocean generates. National Geographic Society's Ocean Initiative aims to restore health and productivity to the ocean by inspiring people to care and act, reducing the impact of fishing, and promoting the creation of marine protected areas.

Watch this video during formal or informal instruction to explain to students why a healthier ocean means a healthier planet. Covering 72 percent of Earth and supplying half its oxygen , the ocean is our planet's life support system. This video dives into why the ocean is important and some of the biggest threats it faces.

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Why We Must Explore the Sea

Robert Ballard, the famed explorer who discovered the wreck of the Titanic, ponders what else is on the ocean floor

Robert D. Ballard

Most people think the bottom of the ocean is like a giant bathtub filled with mud—boring, flat and dark. But it contains the largest mountain range on earth, canyons far grander than the Grand Canyon and towering vertical cliffs rising up three miles—more than twice the height of Yosemite’s celebrated El Capitan.

When you look at publicly available topographies of the seafloor, you can get the impression that the job of mapping the planet is over. Far from it. Even these seemingly precise representations, often based on satellite estimates of ocean depths, are not all that revealing. They’re rather like throwing a wet blanket over a table set for a fancy dinner party. You might see the outlines of four candelabras surrounded by a dozen chairs, perhaps some drinking glasses if the blanket’s really wet. But that’s about it. You wouldn’t see the utensils and plates, let alone what’s for dinner. Satellite data, in other words, only gives a rough idea of what lies beneath the sea.

Only a tiny percentage of the ocean floor has been carefully mapped, which means we know less about 71 percent of the Earth’s landscape than about the far side of the Moon. That’s a lot of terra incognita. More than half of the United States of America lies in the 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone extending out from its borders beneath the sea. If the country wants to extend its claim farther onto the continental shelf, and thus claim the trillions of dollars’ worth of oil and gas deposits probably found there, it needs to map those realms.

Exploration and mapping, and making the data open source, would be for the betterment of all citizens—not just in economic terms but in opportunities for unexpected discoveries. Meanwhile, too many ocean researchers go back to well-trodden regions.

In one way or another I’ve been mapping the ocean since 1967. After being assigned by the Office of Naval Research to the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, I soon found myself standing watch on the research vessel Chain as it steamed back and forth across the continental margin off the East Coast, equipped with an instrument that bounced sound waves off the bottom of the sea and gauged the return. But the smooth, curved landscape pouring from the wet paper recorder onboard barely resembled the submarine canyons the ship was passing over. We simply had to guess how deep each canyon was.

Years later I learned that the Navy had worked with General Instrument to produce a sophisticated sonar system yielding extremely accurate maps, but the system was secret and few oceanographers knew it existed. I saw what this sonar could produce in 1973 during Project FAMOUS (French-American Mid-Ocean Undersea Study), the first time scientists used deep-diving vehicles to explore the rugged volcanic terrain of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge in water depths of 10,000 feet and more. Similarly detailed maps helped guarantee the success of our historic expeditions to the Mid-Cayman Rise and Galápagos Rift in 1976 and 1977, including the discovery of the first hydrothermal vents and their exotic chemosynthetic life-forms.

Last year I mounted the latest multi-beam sonar on Nautilus , the vessel operated by the Ocean Exploration Trust, the nonprofit education and research organization I founded. The instrumentation makes highly accurate 3-D maps, discerns if the seafloor is hard or soft, and can even detect oil and gas in the water column.

We filled in holes in publicly available bathymetry, as the science of measuring ocean depths is known, between the Bahamas and Florida, where there is potential for underwater landslides that could generate tsunamis reaching the East Coast. Such maps can reveal slope instabilities. We worked with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to map a refuge for spawning fish near the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and made some of the first maps around the Belize Barrier Reef.

One standout mission included surveys over natural gas seeps in the Gulf of Mexico, where we tracked gas bubbles from their source deep in the seabed. Then there are the cultural artifacts that so capture public imagination: Nautilus mapped the wreck of the U-166, the only German U-boat known to be sunk in the Gulf of Mexico during World War II.

All in all, our forays with Nautilus have mapped nearly 40,000 square miles of seafloor—a vast area the size of Kentucky, but a drop in the bucket compared with what’s left to do. Next year’s expeditions include trips south of the Equator for the first time. I can only wonder what waits for us in that hemisphere, where the ocean covers more than 80 percent of the area and where few explorers have ever been.

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Robert D. Ballard | READ MORE

Robert D. Ballard, best known for discovering the wrecks of the RMS Titanic in 1985 and the battleship Bismarck in 1989, is the president of the Ocean Exploration Trust. He is also director of the Center for Ocean Exploration at the University of Rhode Island.

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Why is Ocean Conservation so important?

07 Jun 2022

https://oceanliteracy.unesco.org/ocean-conservation/

The ocean covers three-quarters of the Earth’s surface and feeds about half of the world’s population, as well as being home for millions of animal species – hundreds of thousands of which have yet to be found! The ocean also functions as a life-support system for our “blue planet”, regulating the climate on a global scale and producing over half of the oxygen we breathe . Despite this, mankind has mistreated these life-giving oceans to the point where around 40% of marine ecosystems have been harmed.

For far too long, people believed the ocean was endless and unaffected by human activity.

Scientists have just recently realised the terrible impact and ongoing hazard of human activities and behaviour . Our ocean is threatened by overfishing, climate change, pollution, habitat destruction, invasive species, and other types of human exploitation. 

Marine conservation as a concept, then, is actually relatively new. It wasn’t until the 1960s that it became widely accepted that major fish populations were declining and ecosystems were rapidly deteriorating. Today, marine conservation is regarded as one of the world’s most pressing scientific issues. 

Ecosystems have irreversibly changed, ocean management is fragmented, and seas are managed separately from their terrestrial (land) counterparts. Given that water covers 71% of our world, the status of our waterways has become one of our most serious concerns.

A variety of issues have had a harmful impact on our oceans in recent years :

• climate change
• overfishing
• acidification
• sedimentation

What are the policies and actions to reach the goal ?  

​​What is being done to fight for ocean conservation? And, even more importantly, what can you do in your everyday life to support it?

The good news is you can actually do a lot in your daily life to help safeguard the ocean and all the species it sustains. For example:

• Learn about and support your local or national marine protected zones, and look into volunteering possibilities there.
• If you travel, look for marine protected areas that are dedicated to the conservation of marine life, such as the Blue Parks.
• Only take pictures and leave footprints.
• Tell your legislators how vital it is to protect marine species.
• Tell your legislators that you believe it is critical to address climate change.
• Spread the word about what we can do to safeguard ocean ecosystems by talking to people about ocean species and ocean conservation.
• Stop using single-use plastics (such as supermarket bags, straws, to-go containers, and bottled drinks) and replace them with reusable alternatives . Let businesses know why you prefer or avoid their products.
• Reduce your reliance on fossil fuels by riding your bike, taking public transportation, attending virtual meetings and conferences to cut down on long-distance travel, Using renewable energy to power your home and consuming less meat, or no meat!
• Consume only sustainable fish (or none at all!). You may also help by purchasing only responsibly caught fish, while current research indicates that fishing is harmful to the ocean, and that eating no fish at all would be far better for marine ecosystems !
• Support groups dedicated to preserving marine biodiversity.
• Participate in a cleanup ! Many organisations , such as The Sea Cleaners and The Ocean Clean Up, are working on this and creating new technology. Supporting them is a fantastic way to help save the ocean!

The full list of conferences 

If you’re interested in learning more about the most recent advancements in terms of new technology and regulations to clean up our ocean, here’s a list of significant ocean-related conferences throughout the world.

Gordon Research Seminar and Conference — Ocean Biogeochemistry

30 Apr 2022 – 06 May 2022 • Castelldefels, Spain

This Ocean Biogeochemistry Seminar and Conference provides a unique opportunity to share and exchange new data and cutting-edge ideas. Ocean dynamics are driven by complex processes that are critical for ecosystem resilience. “Fundamental and interdisciplinary biogeochemical research that is vital to create a holistic understanding of our past, present, and future oceans” is the goal of this conference.

2022 Joint Aquatic Sciences Meeting

14 May 2022 – 22 May 2022 – Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States

“The world’s largest assembly of aquatic scientists, students, practitioners, resource agency employees, and industry representatives in history,” according to JASM (the Joint Aquatic Sciences Meeting).

Gordon Research Seminar and Conference — Ocean Mixing

04 Jun 2022 – 10 Jun 2022 – Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, United States

The impact of ocean mixing on the ocean and atmospheric systems, as well as on Earth and society in general, will be discussed during this conference.

Gordon Research Seminar and Conference — Ocean Global Change Biology

16 Jul 2022 – 22 Jul 2022 – Waterville Valley, United States

“Integrating Environmental, Organismal, and Community Complexity into Ocean Global Change Research” will be the theme of this forum.

UN Ocean Conference

27 Jun – 1 Jul 2022 – Lisbon, Portugal

The UN Ocean Conference will be co-hosted by the governments of Kenya and Portugal this year, and it will aim to address many of the issues that the COVID-19 outbreak has brought to light. We’ll strive to come up with important structural changes and common solutions during the meeting.

7th International Marine Debris Conference (7IMDC)

18 Sep – 23 Sep 2022 – Busan, Republic of Korea​

This is one of the oldest international conferences on the subject of marine debris and plastic pollution. Governments, industry, scientists, and society will come together to discuss the most recent research, strengthen cooperation, and discover answers to major global issues.

ICEOE 2022 — The 5th International Conference on Environment and Ocean Engineering

21 Oct 2022 – 23 Oct 2022 – Shandong, China

Shandong University is hosting ICEOE, which is one of the major platforms for sharing and exchanging breakthroughs in Environment and Ocean Engineering. It will bring together renowned scientists and researchers from all over the world to debate the most recent subjects in the field.

​​​ 5th International Symposium on the Effects of Climate Change on the World’s Oceans

17-21 April 2023 – Bergen, Norway

ECCWO-5 brings together scientists from around the world to better understand the effects of climate change on ocean ecosystems and to identify potential adaptation and mitigation measures. It also provides the most up-to-date information on how our oceans are changing, what is at risk, and how to respond and work toward a more sustainable future.

More info and projects on ocean conservation

Marine protection atlas.

The Marine Conservation Atlas (MPAtlas), a Marine Conservation Institute initiative, was launched in 2012 with the goal of providing a more nuanced picture of worldwide marine protection. The goal of this project is to clarify, calculate, and illustrate the level of protection and implementation of marine protected zones around the world (MPAs). The identification and tracking of fully and highly protected regions is our major focus. These criteria will guide future discussions and goals for worldwide marine conservation efforts.

To ensure that marine protected areas (MPAs) truly safeguard marine biodiversity, we need guidelines. The Marine Conservation Institute started the Blue Parks program to recognize and reward excellent MPAs, as well as to encourage governments, managers, communities, and leaders to pursue effective conservation. The Blue Parks initiative aims to create a global ocean refuge system that protects at least 30% of the ocean’s biodiversity. The Blue Park Awards honour exceptional marine protected areas (MPAs), and the Blue Park criteria serve as a science-based benchmark for marine conservation effectiveness.

Ocean Care works on a number of different projects and campaigns to protect our ocean. With the campaign “Silent Oceans”, for example, Ocean Care wants to make sure marine life is protected against underwater noise. They are also launching a new program to fight the devastating effects deep sea mining is having on marine ecosystems. 

https://www.oceancare.org/en/our-work/ocean-conservation/

https://oceanconservancy.org/

https://www.oceanconservation.org/

https://www.worldwildlife.org/initiatives/oceans

https://www.oecd.org/ocean/topics/ocean-conservation/

https://marine-conservation.org/why-protect-the-ocean/#:~:text=A%20healthy%20ocean%20regulates%20climate,emissions%20produced%20by%20human%20activities .

https://www.oysterworldwide.com/news/marine-conservation-important/

https://www.fao.org/zhc/detail-events/en/c/846698/

https://www.gvi.co.uk/blog/out-of-sight-front-of-mind-why-marine-conservation-is-so-important/

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Stay up to date:, future of the environment.

Unless you’ve been making a superhuman effort to avoid the news recently, you’ll know that the ocean is vital to life on Earth. But why, exactly, is this the case?

Here are five reasons why we need to safeguard its future.

1. It helps us breathe

Phytoplankton – tiny plant-like organisms that live in the sea – are responsible for at least 50% of the oxygen on Earth .

Just like land-based plants, they contain chlorophyll to capture sunlight and use photosynthesis to convert it into the energy they need, producing oxygen as a byproduct. They also consume carbon dioxide, transferring about 10 gigatonnes of carbon from the atmosphere deep into the ocean each year.

2. It helps regulate the climate

The ocean absorbs huge amounts of heat from the sun. “More than 90% of the warming that has happened on Earth over the past 50 years has occurred in the ocean ,” according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

That heat tends to be at its most intense nearer the equator, with the water nearest the surface warming the most. Sea currents then transport that heat around the world; north and south, towards the poles. As some of the sea water evaporates it becomes denser and heavier, due to its relatively higher salt content. That causes it to sink, taking some of the warm water deeper.

Some currents are directly responsible for specific climatic effects. One example is the Gulf Stream , which takes warmer water from the Gulf of Mexico across the Atlantic to Europe. If the Gulf Stream were disrupted, much of the western part of Europe – including the UK, Ireland and France – could become colder.

3. It’s an important source of food

Fish is on the menu for billions of people around the world every day. It accounts for almost 16% of all animal protein consumed globally . Of course, there’s more to seafood than fish, crustacea and other edible creatures. A range of algae and sea plants are also commonly used in cooking.

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization lists sodium, calcium, magnesium, and iodine among some of the important nutrients in seaweed . Iodine deficiency has been identified as the “most prevalent and easily preventable” cause of impaired cognitive development in children.

Pressure on resources and the environment have led to calls for food production and for people’s diets to change. A cow, for example, produces 2.8kg of greenhouse gas per kilo of live body weight and needs 10kg of feed for every kilo it weighs .

Plus, to get just one gram of protein from cattle, you need 112 litres of water. The oceans, if properly managed and maintained, could form an important part of a more sustainable approach to feeding the planet’s growing human population.

4. Its biodiversity is incredible

It’s not just a source of food. The ocean is also home to an abundance of life. While estimates on the number of species that live in the sea exist, no one knows with absolute certainty what that number is.

According to the US National Library of Medicine’s National Institutes of Health, “ 91% of species in the ocean still await description. ” That’s due in no small part to the vastness of the oceans, which cover around 70% of the planet’s surface and are up to 11,000 metres deep . The number of yet-to-be-discovered creatures living in the sea could easily run into the millions.

One example of how mysterious the deep oceans can be is the coelacanth. Found in fossils and believed to be extinct, a living coelacanth was pulled out of the ocean in 1938 off the coast of South Africa.

This fascinating deep-water creature could yield invaluable insights into how marine animals were able to adapt to life on land , as the way they move their fins resembles the way many four-legged creatures walk.

Our ocean covers 70% of the world’s surface and accounts for 80% of the planet’s biodiversity. We can't have a healthy future without a healthy ocean - but it's more vulnerable than ever because of climate change and pollution.

Tackling the grave threats to our ocean means working with leaders across sectors, from business to government to academia.

The World Economic Forum convenes the Friends of Ocean Action , a coalition of global leaders from a wide range of sectors who are working together to protect the seas. From a programme to scale blue carbon benefits through coordinated action with governments to unlock finance, strengthen and empower local communities, to a global partnership to catalyze science-based actions towards healthy and sustainable blue food value chains, the Forum’s Ocean Action Agenda is pushing for new solutions and aiming to support 1000 Ocean Startups by 2030 that are creating a wave of innovation to address global challenges.

The Forum's Ocean Action Agenda also works closely with our industry partners, such as offshore wind developers and ports, to support them in their transitions towards a nature positive and net zero future. Climate change is an inextricable part of the threat to our ocean, with rising temperatures and acidification disrupting fragile ecosystems. The Forum runs a number of initiatives to support the shift to a low-carbon economy , including hosting the Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, who have cut emissions in their companies by 9%.

Is your organization interested in working with the World Economic Forum? Find out more here .

5. It creates millions of jobs

By 2030, ocean-based industries will employ more than 40 million people worldwide, an OECD report estimates. The biggest share of those jobs is likely to be in the fisheries sector, followed by tourism.

The economic health of maritime industries is fundamentally linked to the overall health of the oceans, of course. The ocean economy is of particular importance in developing countries, which are home to most of the 3 billion people who rely on the sea for their livelihoods .

Challenges like climate change, pollution and a simple lack of awareness of sustainable ocean stewardship techniques continue to put maritime resources at risk. That will limit the potential socioeconomic benefits those resources represent for future generations, as well as stifling people’s earning abilities in the present.

It regulates rainfall and droughts, holds 97% of our planet’s water , and absorbs CO2, helping keep the carbon cycle in balance. From food to jobs, it’s a lifeline for billions of people, too.

But the ocean is also a beautiful natural environment with an invaluable recreational role to play. And with research showing a connection between spending time in the natural world and lowering your stress levels , that might be something else worth holding on to.

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World Economic Forum articles may be republished in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International Public License, and in accordance with our Terms of Use.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not the World Economic Forum.

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Coral Reef Alliance

Saving the World’s Coral Reefs

Why Are Oceans Important? And What Can We Do To Protect Them?

06.01.2022 / Posted in What you can do

Big, beautiful, and blue—are all words that come to mind when thinking about our oceans. But more than just a picturesque beach vacation, oceans are an incredibly valuable component of our planet. 

That’s why the United Nations (UN) designated June 8 as World Oceans Day, serving as an opportunity to raise awareness about the role that oceans play and how we can protect them. Whether you reside on the coast or live hundreds of miles inland, World Oceans Day is a time for everybody to celebrate and learn how ocean health contributes to the overall health of our planet. 

Why are Oceans Important? 

Why are our oceans important? It’s a valid question. Afterall, humans live on land…so why should we care about the health of our oceans and seas? 

Besides the fact that oceans are home to countless marine species, they also greatly contribute to the health of animals that live on land and provide many benefits to humans. According to the National Ocean Service , the ocean produces more than 50 percent of the planet’s oxygen and it regulates our climate and weather patterns. We also rely on the ocean to transport goods, and it contributes to the worldwide economy through tourism, food, and other industries. Not to mention, communities across the globe rely on fish for protein and ocean ingredients used to make modern medicine. 

Despite all of these incredible benefits, climate change and human impacts are causing our oceans’ health to rapidly diminish and deteriorate. That’s why we, at CORAL, are calling on you to help us protect the ocean this World Oceans Day.

Protect the Ocean By Protecting Coral Reefs

At CORAL, we focus on protecting coral reefs, which are unquestionably some of the most valuable underwater ecosystems. 

It’s estimated that roughly 25 percent of all marine life depends on coral reefs, with species ranging from sea turtles to parrotfish to reef sharks. They also provide food, economic value, and shoreline protection to coastal communities.

One major way you can protect the ocean this World Oceans Day is by taking actions that focus on keeping coral reefs healthy. Here are a few simple ways to start making a difference:

• Educate Yourself: Collectively, one of our biggest faults is a lack of knowledge about the ocean and why it is so important to protect. To be part of the solution, you first need to educate yourself. Start by checking out our list of e-learning resources or our reef-safe travel guide . 
• Advocate and Spread Awareness: Once you’ve learned about coral reef conservation, start spreading the word! Tell your parents, your friend, your neighbor—or better yet, start spreading awareness in your local community and advocating for government officials to take action.  
• Reduce Your CO2 Emissions: Climate change is threatening our coral reefs, our oceans, and the future of our planet. To reduce emissions, vote for leaders who will prioritize climate solutions, support eco-friendly brands, and protest for climate action. You can also reduce your own greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing your time in the car, reducing your meat consumption, reusing instead of buying new, and more .
• Keep the Ocean Plastic-Free: By reducing your plastic use, recycling, and picking up litter, you are preventing trash from entering the ocean. It’s estimated that at least 14 million tons of plastic end up in the ocean each year—and toxic chemicals are binding to the materials. As a result, corals and other marine animals ingest harmful plastics and many also suffer from physical injuries or death. 
• Minimize Direct Threats to Coral Reefs: To keep coral reefs and surrounding marine life healthy, we reduce direct threats like water pollution and overfishing. Research shows that there is hope—if corals are kept healthy by minimizing stressors and slowing down worldwide emissions then they can adapt to the planet’s changing climate. Support CORAL’s work to save coral reefs and keep the ocean thriving today.   

Are you looking for more ways to participate in World Oceans Day? Enter our ocean-inspired t-shirt competition! It’s open to all ages and abilities. More details can be found here.

Help save the world’s coral reefs

7 Reasons Why the Ocean Is SO Important

Why is the Ocean so important?

The Ocean is the heart of the planet. Water covers more than two-thirds of the Earth’s surface. Sea plants, like Posidonia , produce 70% of the oxygen we breathe (1), and the deep waters are home to wildlife and some of the biggest creatures on earth. It provides us with food, jobs, life, entertainment, and sailing! Without it, we cannot survive. Why should we care so much about the creatures that live in the ocean? Does it matter if a species disappear? What does that mean for us?

7 reasons why the ocean is important.

1. the ocean produces more oxygen than the amazones..

It is often thought that rainforests are the primary source of oxygen on the planet, but the truth is that rainforests are only responsible for 28% of the oxygen on earth while oceans are responsible for the 70%. It does not matter how far we live from the sea, from every ten breaths you take seven come from the ocean.

Have you ever seen a tree in the middle of the sea? No, right? That is because the Ocean does not need them, the phytoplankton has got it covered. Phytoplankton is a microscopic plant, a component of the plankton, which spends its life being carried by oceanic currents.

Basically, these tiny little organisms act in the same way as tree leaves do on land. Phytoplankton absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen. We do not see them, so we tend to forget about them if we even know about them in the first place. They are one of the tiniest beings on the planet, but one of the most important to have around, keeping us alive.

2. The Ocean regulates the Earth climate.

In many ways, the sea regulates our climate. It soaks up the heat and transports warm water from the equator to the poles, and cold water from the poles to the tropics. Without these currents, the weather would be extreme in some regions, and fewer places would be habitable.

3. It is an important source of food.

Humans have traditionally used algae and sea plants for cooking sushi, seaweed pancit in Philippines, sea grapes, dulse, etc. There is a growing tendency of using algae and sea plants on our daily plates and start-ups like, “This is seaweed… ” (3) are making sure to introduce it in our supermarkets.

4. Many creatures depend and live in the Ocean.

The ocean is not just home to us ocean lovers, but it is home to the greatest abundance of life on our planet. When you sail across an ocean , you will see dolphins, whales or a turtle popping up to take a breath. That is just what we see on the surface; there is more life below the ocean’s surface than on land.

Experts predict4 that there are more than 300.000 different species underwater, and is still not clear how many of them we know. All the creatures that live in the Ocean play an essential role in the trophic chain of the ecosystems. Due to climate change (5), the ocean has been warming and losing oxygen, and its pH has been decreasing.

Many marine species have already been adjusting their geographic and depth ranges with changes in sea temperature. However, not all species may be able to move to avoid thermal stress, and global warming has already been correlated with mass mortalities in the Mediterranean. With more than 60% of the world’s population living on the coastline, we all depend on a healthy sea just as much as these beautiful creatures.

“The sea, the great unifier, is man’s only hope. Now, as never before, the old phrase has a literal meaning: we are all in the same boat.”- Jacques Yves Cousteau

manta ray in bali

5. The best holidays are close to the water.

The ocean is a happy-zone! Our temple, our life, our second home, our exhilaration place. It’s where we swim, surf, sail, dive, chillax, and ‘lime ’ . Family holidays and Sundays often happen on the beach. For sailors, fisherman and islanders, it also is a transport zone.

It carries us to new lands, and connect us with nature and each other . As sailors, we also serve as educators, ambassadors and advocates of a lifestyle on the water. Together we share a passion for the ocean, and an avid desire to keep our playground clean and safe forever. Waterways are crucial to our health, for us and future generations.

6. Many jobs are related to sea activities.

The FAO estimates (6) on the most recent official statistics indicate that 59.6 million people in the world were engaged in fisheries and aquaculture in 2016.

Only at the European Union level, the blue sector represents 3.362.510 of jobs(7), in 9 subsectors: coastal and maritime tourism, Aquaculture, Renewable Energy, Mineral Resources, Biotechnology, Fisheries, Shipbuilding and Ship repair, Offshore Oil and Gas, and Transport. In fact, 90% of the world trade is made by sea. In the U.S. close to three million jobs(8) are directly dependent on the resources of the oceans and Great Lakes.

The ocean gives jobs to fishers, lifeguards, surf instructors, harbours, (free)diving schools, marine-based tour operators, water sports businesses, holiday accommodations , and, of course, ocean nomads !

7. The Ocean has therapeutic properties.

Did you know that the anti-viral drugs Zovirax and Acyclovir were obtained from nucleosides isolated from Caribbean sponges? Or that Yondelis, developed from small soft-bodied marine animals, was the first drug of marine origin to fight cancer(9)? When we dip in the water, our inner dolphin gets released. It’s called the “mammalian diving reflex”(10).

I learned this when I started freediving . When our face touches water, our heart rate immediately slows down, and blood moves from the extremities to the brain, heart and vital organs of our body. Seals and dolphins have this reflex, and so do we! It wakes us up and makes us feel vibrant and alive. The ocean is therapeutic. When we see, feel, hear, smell or taste water we are happy and at peace.

Research has proven that the so-called blue spaces can directly reduce psychological stress and improve mood(11). Read Blue Mind to learn more about that. Despite all that, we still know more about Mars than we know about the ocean! A healthy ocean keeps us healthy on earth.

We are alive right now because of the oceans. Now the ocean needs to be kept alive by us. The choices we make now determine our future, and our children’s future. We have the responsibility to care for the ocean as it cares for us.

By experiencing the ocean first hand on a boat , you will be amazed by its beauty, gain a deep respect for its power, and also see its decline. Learn how to hitchhike on a sailboat and explore the ocean first hand, why the ocean is so important, which challenges we’re facing and above all how you can make a difference for a healthier ocean in book Ocean Nomad .

oceanpreneur

🧜‍♀️Ocean & Eco 💙 Explorer Tips & Tales 🗺️+15yr Fulltime Adventurer by Sail & Van 🧭Travel Oceans @howtotravelbysailboat ⛵️Tribe @oceannomads.community

1 www.ecology.com

2 ec.europa.eu/maritimeaffairs, 3 www.irishtimes.com/business/innovation, 4 – 5 www.cell.com, 6 www.fao.org, 7 www.ec.europa.eu/assets/mare/infographics, 8 www.oceanservice.noaa.gov, 9 www.ec.europa.eu/maritimeaffairs/sites, 10 www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc3768097, 11 www. horizon-magazine.eu  .

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Book ocean nomad.

No boat? No big budget? No sailing experience? But an urge for ocean adventure…   No problem!  Sail the Atlantic Ocean as a Crew Member.

Discover what it feels like to wake up on the ocean, breathe the ocean air, have the wind in your hair, navigate by the stars, live simple and resourceful, and be eye to eye with dolphins. Day in, day out. 

Packed with practical advice and stories, Ocean Nomad guides you from the idea of “someday I would like to go on a sailing trip”, to sipping a coconut on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean celebrating the achievement.

Download the Book

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Hi! My name is Suzanne. I'm here to help you go on ocean adventures and make positive impact for a healthier ocean. Explore this website to learn what I do and how you can make some splashes too!

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5 reasons you should care about our ocean

Our ocean is in serious trouble. Heating, pollution, acidification, and oxygen loss pose serious threats to the health of the ocean and to all living beings who call this vast planetary resource their home. Why should you care? Here are 5 reasons:

1. The ocean regulates our climate and provides the air we breathe

Our ocean mitigates non-renewable industry pollution by absorbing 25 per cent of all carbon emission, while generating 50 per cent of the oxygen we need to survive. It not only functions as the lungs of the planet, providing us with the air we breathe, but also as the world’s largest carbon sink helping to combat the negative impacts of climate change. Additionally, the ocean has taken up more than 90 per cent of the excess heat in the climate system helping to regulate temperatures on land. Thus, climate action depends on a healthy ocean, and a healthy ocean requires urgent climate action.

2. The ocean feeds us

The ocean and its biodiversity provide our global community with 15 per cent of the animal protein we eat. In least developed countries, seafood is the primary source of protein to over 50 per cent of the population. It is therefore critical to protect the ocean’s biodiversity and practice sustainable fishing strategies for continued consumption. Currently, more than 10 million tons of fish go to waste every year because of destructive fishing practices. This is enough to fill 4,500 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Without significant change, UNESCO predicts more than 50 per cent of the world’s marine species may face extinction by 2100.

3. It provides jobs and livelihoods

The ocean provides livelihoods to 3 billion people, nearly 50 per cent of the entire global population. Marine fisheries provide 57 million jobs globally. The blue economy is a strong industry that allows many to make their living and provide for their families. However, over 60 per cent of the world’s major marine ecosystems that underpin these livelihoods are being used unsustainably, with a significant portion being completely degraded. Additionally, according to UNEP, pollution from the 11 million tons of plastic that enters the ocean annually, costs an estimated US $13 billion, including clean-up costs and financial losses from fisheries and additional ocean-based industries. It is critical that we stop polluting our ocean.

4. The ocean is a tool for economic development

The ocean is a significant economic tool. Ocean economies are among the most rapidly growing in the world. The market value of marine and coastal resources and the developing industry is estimated by UNDP to be US $3 trillion per year, which is about 5 per cent of total global gross domestic product. Thus, developing countries’ access to the ocean and shorelines allow them to develop and attract foreign direct investments and direct industry production within the state. Additionally, 80 per cent of tourism happens in coastal areas. The ocean-related tourism industry grows an estimated US $134 billion every year. However, for states to utilize their ocean resources, we must work together as a global community to protect the ocean. It is estimated that the loss of tourism due to coral bleaching alone is as much as $12 billion annually. With ocean levels rising as the temperature of our planet increases, coastline-specific tourism and energy industries are at risk along with the 680 million people who live in low-lying coastal areas, a number that is expected to rise to one billion by 2050.

5. We need a healthy ocean to survive

The ocean affects us all in positive ways, no matter if you live on the coastline or in the desert. It provides climate regulation, food, jobs, livelihoods, and economic progress. Thus, we must work together to protect and save the ocean for the sake of our future survival on this planet. To learn more about the state of our ocean and what you can to today to help, visit the  2022 UN Ocean Conference website . Make your voluntary commitments  here  to save our ocean and follow the Conference taking place in Lisbon, Portugal, from 27 June to 1 July 2022, live via  UN Web TV .

SIDS4: Charting the course toward resilient prosperity

24 May 2024 - The international community is joining together to support small islands in their bid for a better future. Opening on 27 May in Antigua and Barbuda, the 4 th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) is a chance for renewed commitment and transformative action in support of sustainable development with and for small island nations.

Small islands ready for global spotlight and accelerated action at Antigua and Barbuda conference

20 May 2024 - Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face major challenges—climate change, geographic remoteness, a narrow export base—that make them vulnerable to external economic, environmental, and social shocks. But they also have innovative solutions, dynamic populations, and people ready to act. 

Hopeful horizons: Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing gears up for crucial session in May

17 May 2024 - The 14th session of the Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWG) from 20 to 22 and 24 May 2024 is an opportunity to ensure that older persons everywhere can age with security and dignity and participate fully in their societies as citizens with equal rights.

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Why is the Ocean Important?

The ocean gives us life. It feeds us, entertains us, connects us and inspires us, and powers our success.

Our well-being depends on a healthy ocean. It always has. It always will. The pressures on the ocean are intense and growing — but recovery is possible. Putting a healthy ocean at the heart of decision-making is essential so that effective protection, sustainable production and equitable prosperity go hand-in-hand to benefit people, nature and the economy.

A healthy ocean holds the solutions to many of the world’s challenges.

The ocean is incredibly effective at absorbing CO2 and heat, and has warmed unabated for the last 50 years—but as a result, it has absorbed more than 90% of excess heat  caused by human activity globally and around 25% of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions .

Absorbs 25% of all CO2 emissions

Captures 90% of the additional heat generated from those emissions

The ocean is in trouble. Its health is off-track and it is under intense and growing pressure. Plastic and other marine pollutants, acidification and rising ocean temperatures due to climate change are negatively impacting habitats and biodiversity.

Without action, the annual flow of plastic into the ocean will nearly triple by 2040 , to 29 million metric tons per year.

Acidification and ocean warming are causing widespread death of coral reefs. Moreover, unabated climate change could cause coral reef tourism revenue losses of over 90% , while some West African countries are forecast to see fish stocks decline by 85% .

It provides oxygen, food and medicine and is a source of recreation, discovery, identity and culture.

More than  3 billion people  rely on food from the ocean as a source of protein and nutrition.

Covers 70% of the earth’s surface

Home to 50-80% of all life on Earth

Overfishing is negatively impacting important industries including fishing and tourism, the well-being of coastal communities, and the ability of small island developing states to sustainably grow.

Fishing has become the number one driver of extinction risk for marine vertebrates (excluding birds). If overfishing continues, annual yield is projected to fall by around 16 percent by 2050 , threatening global food security.

Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing is estimated to account for 20% of the world’s catch, rising to 50% in some areas.

It is an engine of livelihoods, transport, commerce, and energy production.

A healthy ocean contributes  $1.5 trillion to the global economy  annually and has an estimated net asset value of $24 trillion. It is also  the source of millions of jobs  in fishing, tourism, transportation, and powers economic growth.

Generates 50% of the earth’s oxygen

Largest biosphere on the planet

Current trends threaten the economic vitality of the ocean. A degraded ocean has vast repercussions not just for ocean life, but for communities, jobs and livelihoods across the planet—not to mention our very existence.

We cannot afford to continue with “business-as-usual”. New governance, policy and market approaches are required that allow profitability and sustainability to operate simultaneously.

Declining ocean health could cost the global economy more than $400 billion annually by 2050. This could reach $2 trillion annually by 2100.

The ocean is a solution.

It’s time to shift from thinking of the ocean as a victim to seeing it as an essential part of solving global challenges. It was once thought there was a choice between ocean protection and production, but in reality, the two go together.

Utilising both is necessary for a healthy, prosperous future—and the research supports it.

A sustainable ocean economy, where protection, production and prosperity go hand in hand, can create a healthy ocean that provides solutions to global challenges.

For every $1 invested in healthy ocean action, there is a $5 return in benefits. The ocean is a smart investment that will deliver social, health, economic and environmental benefits

The ocean can improve global food security. Through better management and technological innovation, the ocean could sustainably provide many times more food by 2050 than it does today .

The ocean can contribute  to reducing one-fifth of greenhouse gas emissions (21%) needed to meet the Paris Agreement climate goals by 2050. That’s equivalent to taking over 2.5 billion cars off the road each year.

The use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems and associated services.

An approach to managing ecosystems and resources as a whole, promoting an equitable system of conservation and sustainable use.

It is an important tool that will help nations to sustainably manage 100% of their ocean area in an integrative and inclusive way.

A Sustainable Ocean Plan aims to guide public and private sector decision-makers on how to sustainably manage a nation’s ocean area under national jurisdiction to advance long-term economic and social development—by protecting the natural marine ecosystems that underpin that development.

It lays the foundation for implementing the Ocean Panel’s Transformations, providing a unifying ‘umbrella’ for national ocean-related governance.

Hope is on the Horizon

Building a sustainable ocean economy is one of the most important tasks and greatest opportunities of our time.

Governments, industries, stakeholders and experts are joining forces to develop and implement ocean solutions around the world, but we need to go further, move faster, and ensure that our actions balance the needs of people, planet and prosperity.

The Ocean Panel is working toward a sustainable ocean economy.

World leaders, organizations and experts are collaborating to realize the mission of sustainably managing 100% of national waters.

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125 Ocean Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

The ocean is a vast and mysterious place that has captured the imagination of humans for centuries. From its stunning marine life to its powerful waves, there is no shortage of topics to explore when it comes to writing about the ocean. Whether you are a student looking for inspiration for an essay or a writer wanting to delve into the beauty of the sea, here are 125 ocean essay topic ideas and examples to get you started:

• The importance of ocean conservation
• The impact of climate change on the ocean
• Exploring the depths of the ocean: the Mariana Trench
• The beauty of coral reefs and their fragile ecosystem
• The role of oceans in regulating the Earth's climate
• The significance of marine biodiversity
• The history of ocean exploration
• The dangers of plastic pollution in the ocean
• The relationship between humans and the ocean throughout history
• The economic importance of the ocean
• The cultural significance of the ocean in different societies
• The role of oceans in global food security
• The impact of overfishing on marine ecosystems
• The wonders of bioluminescence in the ocean
• The importance of ocean literacy for a sustainable future
• The role of oceans in providing medicine and pharmaceuticals
• The connection between oceans and human health
• The threats facing endangered marine species
• The role of marine protected areas in conservation efforts
• The impact of ocean acidification on marine life
• The benefits of sustainable fishing practices
• The history of whaling and its impact on whale populations
• The beauty of seascapes and coastal landscapes
• The magic of tide pools and their unique ecosystems
• The importance of mangrove forests in coastal protection
• The role of seagrass meadows in carbon sequestration
• The wonders of deep-sea creatures and their adaptations
• The relationship between coral reefs and tourism
• The impact of ocean noise pollution on marine mammals
• The mysteries of the Bermuda Triangle and other ocean legends
• The history of shipwrecks and underwater archaeology
• The dangers of ocean acidification on shellfish and coral reefs
• The impact of oil spills on marine ecosystems
• The benefits of marine parks and protected areas
• The importance of ocean literacy for children
• The connection between oceans and climate change
• The role of phytoplankton in the ocean food web
• The mysteries of the deep sea and its unique ecosystems
• The relationship between oceans and weather patterns
• The impact of ocean pollution on marine life
• The wonders of underwater photography and videography
• The role of marine mammals in ocean ecosystems
• The importance of sustainable seafood choices
• The history of ocean exploration and discoveries
• The beauty of seashells and their intricate designs
• The significance of ocean currents in shaping the Earth's climate
• The dangers of ghost nets and marine debris
• The benefits of seaweed farming for food security
• The impact of ocean acidification on coral reefs
• The wonders of bioluminescent organisms in the deep sea

In conclusion, the ocean is a vast and fascinating topic that offers endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. Whether you are interested in marine biology, environmental science, history, or culture, there is something for everyone to learn and appreciate about the ocean. So dive in and start exploring these ocean essay topic ideas and examples to uncover the wonders of the deep blue sea.

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Essay on Importance of Ocean

Students are often asked to write an essay on Importance of Ocean in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Importance of Ocean

The significance of oceans.

Oceans cover over 70% of Earth’s surface and play a vital role in maintaining the planet’s health. They’re home to countless species, many yet undiscovered.

Climate Regulators

Oceans absorb heat and distribute it around the world, creating a balanced climate. They also absorb carbon dioxide, reducing global warming.

Source of Food and Medicine

Many people rely on oceans for food, like fish and shellfish. Additionally, new medicines are being discovered from marine organisms.

Recreation and Economy

Oceans provide recreational activities like surfing and diving, boosting local economies. They also facilitate global trade through sea routes.

250 Words Essay on Importance of Ocean

The lifeline of earth: oceans.

Oceans, covering about 71% of the Earth’s surface, play an indispensable role in maintaining life and ecological balance. They are the Earth’s largest life-support systems, contributing significantly to the planet’s biosphere and climate regulation.

Biodiversity and Marine Life

Oceans are a reservoir of biodiversity, hosting an array of marine life forms. They are home to millions of species, many of which are yet to be discovered. This biodiversity is crucial for maintaining the health of global ecosystems and contributes to the balance of nature.

Climate Regulation and Carbon Sequestration

Oceans act as a buffer against climate change by absorbing about 30% of the carbon dioxide produced by human activities. This process, known as carbon sequestration, helps mitigate the effects of global warming. Moreover, they regulate the Earth’s climate by distributing heat around the planet through ocean currents.

Economic Significance

Oceans also have immense economic significance. They provide a livelihood for millions of people worldwide, particularly in coastal communities. Fisheries, tourism, and maritime trade are some of the key sectors dependent on the oceans.

In conclusion, the importance of oceans is multifaceted and profound. They are not just vast bodies of water but lifelines for Earth, influencing climate, supporting biodiversity, and driving economies. As we continue to explore the depths of the oceans, it is essential to respect and preserve these invaluable resources for future generations.

500 Words Essay on Importance of Ocean

The lifeblood of our planet: the importance of oceans.

Oceans, the vast expanses of water that cover approximately 71% of the Earth’s surface, are undeniably vital to life as we know it. They are not just large bodies of water; they are complex, interconnected ecosystems that play a critical role in maintaining the Earth’s balance and supporting a diverse array of life forms.

Oceans are the Earth’s primary climate regulators. They absorb about a third of the carbon dioxide released by human activities, mitigating the impacts of climate change. Through a process known as the oceanic carbon cycle, oceans absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, convert it into carbonic acid, bicarbonate, and carbonate, which are then used by marine organisms in their metabolic processes. Without this critical function, the Earth’s atmosphere would contain significantly more CO2, leading to a much warmer planet.

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services

The oceans are a hub of biodiversity, housing millions of species, from the smallest plankton to the largest whales. This biodiversity is not just about the abundance of life; it provides essential ecosystem services. These services include food provision, as oceans are a primary source of protein for billions of people worldwide. Moreover, many marine organisms are integral to developing medicines, including treatments for cancer and other diseases.

Oceans also have significant economic value. They support industries like fishing, tourism, and shipping, which are critical to the global economy. According to the World Wildlife Fund, the ocean economy is the seventh-largest economy globally if ranked alongside the world’s wealthiest nations.

Recreational and Cultural Value

Beyond their tangible benefits, oceans have intangible values that enrich human life. They serve as venues for recreation, providing opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sailing. They also hold cultural and spiritual significance for many communities around the world, playing a central role in their histories and identities.

The Urgency of Ocean Conservation

Despite their importance, oceans are under threat from overfishing, pollution, and climate change. These threats not only endanger marine life but also undermine the essential functions that oceans perform. As such, there is an urgent need for global cooperation to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 14.

In conclusion, the importance of oceans cannot be overstated. They are crucial regulators of our climate, hubs of biodiversity, significant contributors to the global economy, and sources of recreation and cultural value. The conservation of oceans is not just an environmental issue; it is a matter of global security, economic stability, and human well-being. As we move forward, it is essential to recognize the oceans’ value and take collective action to protect these precious resources for generations to come.

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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Ocean — The Significance and Impact of Oceanic Exploration

The Significance and Impact of Oceanic Exploration

• Categories: Ocean

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Published: Feb 22, 2024

Words: 807 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Table of contents

Importance of ocean exploration and research in understanding global ecosystems, most promising new ocean exploration and research technologies, impact of the newly discovered ocean in africa on oceanography and marine studies.

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Science News

‘the high seas’ tells of the many ways humans are laying claim to the ocean.

Conservation goals often coexist alongside increased exploration and exploitation

One pressure on international waters is the search for new sources of fish to support aquaculture (a salmon farm in Norway is shown).

MariusLtu/Getty Images Plus

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By Carolyn Gramling

May 20, 2024 at 9:30 am

The High Seas Olive Heffernan Greystone Books, $32.95

The ocean is a rich, fertile and seemingly lawless frontier. It’s a watery wild west, irresistible to humans hoping to plunder its many riches.

That is the narrative throughout The High Seas: Greed, Power and the Battle for the Unclaimed Ocean , a fast-paced, thoroughly reported and deeply disquieting book by science journalist Olive Heffernan, also the founding chief editor of the journal Nature Climate Change .

The book begins by churning rapidly through the waves of history that brought us to today, including how we even define the high seas: all ocean waters more than 200 nautical miles from any country’s coastline. In many ways, the modern ocean grab was set in motion some 400 years ago. A bitter feud between Dutch and Portuguese traders culminated in a legal document called the Mare Liberum , or the “free seas,” which argues that the ocean is a vast global commons owned by no one.

Heffernan devotes a chapter each to different ways people are increasingly staking claims to international waters, an expansion called the Blue Acceleration. Some are hunting for new fishing grounds or prospecting for seafloor ores ( SN: 5/4/20 ). Others are searching for new medicines in the DNA of deep-sea microbes, sponges or sea lilies. Still others are exploring how to boost the ocean’s carbon uptake to help slow climate change ( SN: 4/26/24 ). Even the space industry wants a piece of the ocean — to create watery graveyards for defunct spacecraft.

The careening from one ocean ambition to another underscores one of the book’s biggest takeaways: We’ve established a precarious new type of ocean ecosystem, and it is going to be incredibly difficult — maybe impossible — to juggle all the priorities while also protecting ocean health and biodiversity.

Consider Trondheim, Norway, where Heffernan visits the SINTEF SeaLab. One of the world’s wealthiest oil states, Norway wants to move its economy away from oil and more toward aquaculture, partly by dramatically increasing the production of its coastal salmon farms. The ocean’s twilight zone, the murky waters that extend from about 100 meters to 1,000 meters below the surface, where sunlight no longer penetrates, could provide an immense untapped resource of feeder fish for those farmed salmon. By at least one estimate, Heffernan writes, the twilight zone contains as much as 95 percent of the ocean’s fish by weight.

But these twilight denizens are also key to the ocean’s ability to sequester atmospheric carbon ( SN: 11/28/17 ). Crustaceans, fish and other creatures rise toward the surface to feed on carbon-bearing plankton at night, and then sink into the depths during the day — carrying that carbon into the deep.

Such conflicting desires to plunder and protect show up over and over again. Nations urging conservation in one arena may push for increasing exploration or exploitation in another, Heffernan writes. The European Union in 2021, for example, offered subsidies to its fishing fleet to range farther offshore, even as it committed to sustainable fishing. Nations keen to commit to protecting marine life and combating climate change may be the same countries that support deep-sea mining, which may be detrimental to life on the ocean floor.

The problem, Heffernan says, isn’t that the high seas are without any rules. Rather, there’s “a mishmash of organizations and bodies, each using their own rulebook.” Plus, she adds, “I now realize that many of those tasked with governing this space willfully ignore science and disregard expert advice.”

There are global efforts afoot to establish uniform, consistent regulations on ocean activities. In particular, Heffernan notes that in 2023, United Nations member states passed the High Seas Treaty, which would establish marine protected areas in international waters. If ratified, the treaty could be a big step toward conserving ocean biodiversity.

But be warned: This is not an uplifting book. By the final chapter — titled, somewhat unconvincingly, “Hope for the high seas” — it’s hard to know what anyone could actually do to help save the ocean. What The High Seas does, and powerfully, is convey the sheer scope and complexity of the Blue Acceleration. We’re at a crucial juncture, Heffernan writes: “We can continue going ever deeper and further offshore in our quest for new sources of wealth, or we can strike a more sustainable balance.”

Buy The High Seas  from Bookshop.org.  Science News  is a Bookshop.org affiliate and will earn a commission on purchases made from links in this article.

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Important Tips for Writing TOEFL Essay| Tips 2024

The TOEFL iBT test is a good way to show you know English well enough for university. The test has four parts: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. It takes about three hours to finish. The last part, the writing section, has two essays: one independent and one integrated.

The integrated essay lasts 20 minutes and is based on a reading and a listening passage, similar to a typical school setting. You need to remember what you heard and explain the ideas in your own words without copying. In this article, we will give you some really helpful tips to improve your TOEFL iBT writing skills.

Table of Content

10 Amazing TOEFL 2024 Essay Writing Tips

Tips for writing a good toefl essay, create an essay plan, know what the examiner wants, give yourself a word limit, stick to the prompt, keep on practising your writing, use effective paragraph structure, use specific examples, use varied sentence structure, use academic vocabulary, use correct grammar and punctuation, integrated writing task, transition words and phrases, integrated essay time breakdown.

Here’s a quick summary of our top 10 TOEFL Writing Tips:

• Tip 1: Pay close attention to the reading passage because the listening passage will challenge each point made in it.
• Tip 2: Practice taking brief but accurate notes during the listening passage. You only get to hear it once.
• Tip 3: Paraphrase the passages. The TOEFL grading criteria include vocabulary, and you will earn zero points if you simply quote the material.
• Tip 4: Use lots of transitional words and phrases to help develop your essay and connect your ideas.
• Tip 5: Manage your time wisely. You only have 20 minutes to write an essay of at least 250 words.
• Tip 6: Add to the discussion. Do not repeat points and ideas from the passages in your response.
• Tip 7: Stick to a few simple verb tenses.
• Tip 8: Try to include multiple sentences with more than one clause.
• Tip 9: Plan to edit your essay for at least one minute at the end. There is no spellcheck on the TOEFL.
• Tip 10: Practice writing at home and ask a teacher or trained TOEFL expert to give you a grade and point out your weaknesses.

Must Read: Top 10 TOEFL 2024 Writing Tips to Ace the Exam

Having a plan for your TOEFL iBT essay can make your writing flow better and help you organize your ideas. Writing down a short essay plan before you start will help you use your time well. When you know what you will write next, you won’t have to stop and think between each paragraph.

There are several common TOEFL iBT essay plans that work well. However, the most important thing is to find what works best for you. An organized plan is essential to succeed in the TOEFL iBT writing test because it helps the examiner follow your essay easily. Even if you have great ideas, a disorganized essay can make it hard to get the grades you deserve.

Check the writing rubrics for the TOEFL iBT writing test and set a goal for the grade you want.

The writing rubrics show what the examiner expects from your TOEFL iBT essay. This can help you focus on important skills like organization and clarity.

You can find examples of TOEFL iBT writing test essays with estimated grades online. These examples give you a good idea of what to aim for when practicing. Knowing what the examiner is looking for can make you feel more confident in your writing.

A good TOEFL iBT essay should have at least 150 words for the integrated task and 300 words for the independent task. However, it’s up to you to decide.

Setting a word limit helps you know when to stop writing and start checking your essay. This also forces you to focus on what is essential, leading to a higher grade. In writing your TOEFL iBT essay, quality is more important than quantity.

Under pressure during the TOEFL iBT exam, it’s easy to go off-topic.

After each paragraph, quickly read what you have written to ensure it is relevant to the essay prompt. This will save time because you won’t have to rewrite at the end if you realize you strayed from the topic. It also helps you plan the next paragraph.

With limited time, it’s best to stay on track throughout the TOEFL iBT writing test. This is especially important for the independent writing task but is also useful for the integrated writing.

More Practice is key for the TOEFL iBT writing test as it improves both your writing skills and speed. The more you write, the more confident you will feel during the exam.

Becoming good at writing doesn’t happen overnight, so practice is essential. Spending 30 minutes on a sample TOEFL iBT essay regularly will help you improve. By practicing often, you will retain your skills and become familiar with the essays, making them less intimidating during the test.

Also, it’s important to time yourself when you practice.

Paragraphs are the building blocks of your essay. Each paragraph should start with a clear topic sentence that ties into the main idea of the essay. Support your main point with evidence and examples in each paragraph. Make sure each paragraph flows smoothly into the next by using transition words and phrases to link ideas and create a cohesive essay.

To score high on your TOEFL essay, use specific examples to support your ideas. Include real-life examples, statistics, and facts to back up your arguments. This shows your knowledge of the topic and your critical thinking skills. Specific examples also make your essay more interesting and help you stand out from other test-takers.

Vary your sentence structure to make your essay more engaging. Mix short and long sentences, questions, and statements to add variety. This will help avoid repetition and keep your writing interesting. However, ensure that your sentences are grammatically correct and fit well in the context of your essay.

Using academic vocabulary makes your essay sound more professional. Choose words that are suitable for the academic level of the test. Avoid slang, casual language, and overly complex words. Make sure you use words correctly and understand their meanings.

Correct grammar and punctuation are crucial for a high score on the TOEFL writing section. Ensure you use correct verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and sentence structure. Use appropriate punctuation to make your writing clear and easy to read. If you’re unsure about any grammar or punctuation rules, look them up or ask a tutor for help.

Transitional words and phrases are crucial and should be used in TOEFL essays. Transition between contrasting points of views in both readin and listening passages are important:

Related Articles TOEFL Full Form – Eligibility, Exam Pattern, Benefits TOEFL Exam Pattern 2024: Check Question Types & Scores TOEFL Eligibility 2024: Age Limit, Qualification, Docs & More TOEFL Preparation Tips & Strategies 2024 TOEFL Exam 2024: Fees, Syllabus, Dates, Registration & More TOEFL Exam Registration 2024: Check Dates, Fees, Processes, Centres & More TOEFL Speaking Score: Percentiles, Score Calculation, Score Range, and Score Rubrics

How to write a good TOEFL essay- FAQs

What is the format of the toefl essay.

The TOEFL essay is a 30-minute written task where you are asked to express and support your opinion on a specific topic. The essay is typically four to five paragraphs long and should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Where can I find sample TOEFL essays to practice with?

You can find sample TOEFL essays in TOEFL preparation books or online. The official TOEFL website also provides sample essays and scoring guides.

How can I prepare for the TOEFL writing section?

To prepare for the TOEFL writing section, you should practice writing essays using sample prompts, develop your grammar and vocabulary skills, and learn how to organize and develop your ideas effectively. You may also want to work.

How to write a TOEFL essay?

To write a TOEFL essay, it is important to understand the prompt, brainstorm ideas, create an outline, and then write a well-structured essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Practice organising your thoughts and expressing them clearly within the time limit provided.

Is 27 a good writing score in TOEFL?

Yes, a score of 27 is considered a good writing score in TOEFL. It demonstrates a high level of proficiency in writing and indicates strong language skills, coherence, and clarity in expressing ideas.

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• Probabilistic methods (e.g., variational inference, causal inference, Gaussian processes)
• Reinforcement learning (e.g., decision and control, planning, hierarchical RL, robotics)
• Social and economic aspects of machine learning (e.g., fairness, interpretability, human-AI interaction, privacy, safety, strategic behavior)
• Theory (e.g., control theory, learning theory, algorithmic game theory)

Machine learning is a rapidly evolving field, and so we welcome interdisciplinary submissions that do not fit neatly into existing categories.

Authors are asked to confirm that their submissions accord with the NeurIPS code of conduct .

Formatting instructions:   All submissions must be in PDF format, and in a single PDF file include, in this order:

• The submitted paper
• Technical appendices that support the paper with additional proofs, derivations, or results 
• The NeurIPS paper checklist  

Other supplementary materials such as data and code can be uploaded as a ZIP file

The main text of a submitted paper is limited to nine content pages , including all figures and tables. Additional pages containing references don’t count as content pages. If your submission is accepted, you will be allowed an additional content page for the camera-ready version.

The main text and references may be followed by technical appendices, for which there is no page limit.

The maximum file size for a full submission, which includes technical appendices, is 50MB.

Authors are encouraged to submit a separate ZIP file that contains further supplementary material like data or source code, when applicable.

You must format your submission using the NeurIPS 2024 LaTeX style file which includes a “preprint” option for non-anonymous preprints posted online. Submissions that violate the NeurIPS style (e.g., by decreasing margins or font sizes) or page limits may be rejected without further review. Papers may be rejected without consideration of their merits if they fail to meet the submission requirements, as described in this document. 

Paper checklist: In order to improve the rigor and transparency of research submitted to and published at NeurIPS, authors are required to complete a paper checklist . The paper checklist is intended to help authors reflect on a wide variety of issues relating to responsible machine learning research, including reproducibility, transparency, research ethics, and societal impact. The checklist forms part of the paper submission, but does not count towards the page limit.

Please join the NeurIPS 2024 Checklist Assistant Study that will provide you with free verification of your checklist performed by an LLM here . Please see details in our  blog

Supplementary material: While all technical appendices should be included as part of the main paper submission PDF, authors may submit up to 100MB of supplementary material, such as data, or source code in a ZIP format. Supplementary material should be material created by the authors that directly supports the submission content. Like submissions, supplementary material must be anonymized. Looking at supplementary material is at the discretion of the reviewers.

We encourage authors to upload their code and data as part of their supplementary material in order to help reviewers assess the quality of the work. Check the policy as well as code submission guidelines and templates for further details.

Use of Large Language Models (LLMs): We welcome authors to use any tool that is suitable for preparing high-quality papers and research. However, we ask authors to keep in mind two important criteria. First, we expect papers to fully describe their methodology, and any tool that is important to that methodology, including the use of LLMs, should be described also. For example, authors should mention tools (including LLMs) that were used for data processing or filtering, visualization, facilitating or running experiments, and proving theorems. It may also be advisable to describe the use of LLMs in implementing the method (if this corresponds to an important, original, or non-standard component of the approach). Second, authors are responsible for the entire content of the paper, including all text and figures, so while authors are welcome to use any tool they wish for writing the paper, they must ensure that all text is correct and original.

Double-blind reviewing:   All submissions must be anonymized and may not contain any identifying information that may violate the double-blind reviewing policy.  This policy applies to any supplementary or linked material as well, including code.  If you are including links to any external material, it is your responsibility to guarantee anonymous browsing.  Please do not include acknowledgements at submission time. If you need to cite one of your own papers, you should do so with adequate anonymization to preserve double-blind reviewing.  For instance, write “In the previous work of Smith et al. [1]…” rather than “In our previous work [1]...”). If you need to cite one of your own papers that is in submission to NeurIPS and not available as a non-anonymous preprint, then include a copy of the cited anonymized submission in the supplementary material and write “Anonymous et al. [1] concurrently show...”). Any papers found to be violating this policy will be rejected.

OpenReview: We are using OpenReview to manage submissions. The reviews and author responses will not be public initially (but may be made public later, see below). As in previous years, submissions under review will be visible only to their assigned program committee. We will not be soliciting comments from the general public during the reviewing process. Anyone who plans to submit a paper as an author or a co-author will need to create (or update) their OpenReview profile by the full paper submission deadline. Your OpenReview profile can be edited by logging in and clicking on your name in https://openreview.net/ . This takes you to a URL "https://openreview.net/profile?id=~[Firstname]_[Lastname][n]" where the last part is your profile name, e.g., ~Wei_Zhang1. The OpenReview profiles must be up to date, with all publications by the authors, and their current affiliations. The easiest way to import publications is through DBLP but it is not required, see FAQ . Submissions without updated OpenReview profiles will be desk rejected. The information entered in the profile is critical for ensuring that conflicts of interest and reviewer matching are handled properly. Because of the rapid growth of NeurIPS, we request that all authors help with reviewing papers, if asked to do so. We need everyone’s help in maintaining the high scientific quality of NeurIPS.  

Please be aware that OpenReview has a moderation policy for newly created profiles: New profiles created without an institutional email will go through a moderation process that can take up to two weeks. New profiles created with an institutional email will be activated automatically.

Venue home page: https://openreview.net/group?id=NeurIPS.cc/2024/Conference

If you have any questions, please refer to the FAQ: https://openreview.net/faq

Abstract Submission: There is a mandatory abstract submission deadline on May 15, 2024, six days before full paper submissions are due. While it will be possible to edit the title and abstract until the full paper submission deadline, submissions with “placeholder” abstracts that are rewritten for the full submission risk being removed without consideration. This includes titles and abstracts that either provide little or no semantic information (e.g., "We provide a new semi-supervised learning method.") or describe a substantively different claimed contribution.  The author list cannot be changed after the abstract deadline. After that, authors may be reordered, but any additions or removals must be justified in writing and approved on a case-by-case basis by the program chairs only in exceptional circumstances. 

Ethics review: Reviewers and ACs may flag submissions for ethics review . Flagged submissions will be sent to an ethics review committee for comments. Comments from ethics reviewers will be considered by the primary reviewers and AC as part of their deliberation. They will also be visible to authors, who will have an opportunity to respond.  Ethics reviewers do not have the authority to reject papers, but in extreme cases papers may be rejected by the program chairs on ethical grounds, regardless of scientific quality or contribution.  

Preprints: The existence of non-anonymous preprints (on arXiv or other online repositories, personal websites, social media) will not result in rejection. If you choose to use the NeurIPS style for the preprint version, you must use the “preprint” option rather than the “final” option. Reviewers will be instructed not to actively look for such preprints, but encountering them will not constitute a conflict of interest. Authors may submit anonymized work to NeurIPS that is already available as a preprint (e.g., on arXiv) without citing it. Note that public versions of the submission should not say "Under review at NeurIPS" or similar.

Dual submissions: Submissions that are substantially similar to papers that the authors have previously published or submitted in parallel to other peer-reviewed venues with proceedings or journals may not be submitted to NeurIPS. Papers previously presented at workshops are permitted, so long as they did not appear in a conference proceedings (e.g., CVPRW proceedings), a journal or a book.  NeurIPS coordinates with other conferences to identify dual submissions.  The NeurIPS policy on dual submissions applies for the entire duration of the reviewing process.  Slicing contributions too thinly is discouraged.  The reviewing process will treat any other submission by an overlapping set of authors as prior work. If publishing one would render the other too incremental, both may be rejected.

Anti-collusion: NeurIPS does not tolerate any collusion whereby authors secretly cooperate with reviewers, ACs or SACs to obtain favorable reviews. 

Author responses:   Authors will have one week to view and respond to initial reviews. Author responses may not contain any identifying information that may violate the double-blind reviewing policy. Authors may not submit revisions of their paper or supplemental material, but may post their responses as a discussion in OpenReview. This is to reduce the burden on authors to have to revise their paper in a rush during the short rebuttal period.

After the initial response period, authors will be able to respond to any further reviewer/AC questions and comments by posting on the submission’s forum page. The program chairs reserve the right to solicit additional reviews after the initial author response period.  These reviews will become visible to the authors as they are added to OpenReview, and authors will have a chance to respond to them.

After the notification deadline, accepted and opted-in rejected papers will be made public and open for non-anonymous public commenting. Their anonymous reviews, meta-reviews, author responses and reviewer responses will also be made public. Authors of rejected papers will have two weeks after the notification deadline to opt in to make their deanonymized rejected papers public in OpenReview.  These papers are not counted as NeurIPS publications and will be shown as rejected in OpenReview.

Publication of accepted submissions:   Reviews, meta-reviews, and any discussion with the authors will be made public for accepted papers (but reviewer, area chair, and senior area chair identities will remain anonymous). Camera-ready papers will be due in advance of the conference. All camera-ready papers must include a funding disclosure . We strongly encourage accompanying code and data to be submitted with accepted papers when appropriate, as per the code submission policy . Authors will be allowed to make minor changes for a short period of time after the conference.

Contemporaneous Work: For the purpose of the reviewing process, papers that appeared online within two months of a submission will generally be considered "contemporaneous" in the sense that the submission will not be rejected on the basis of the comparison to contemporaneous work. Authors are still expected to cite and discuss contemporaneous work and perform empirical comparisons to the degree feasible. Any paper that influenced the submission is considered prior work and must be cited and discussed as such. Submissions that are very similar to contemporaneous work will undergo additional scrutiny to prevent cases of plagiarism and missing credit to prior work.

Plagiarism is prohibited by the NeurIPS Code of Conduct .

Other Tracks: Similarly to earlier years, we will host multiple tracks, such as datasets, competitions, tutorials as well as workshops, in addition to the main track for which this call for papers is intended. See the conference homepage for updates and calls for participation in these tracks. 

Experiments: As in past years, the program chairs will be measuring the quality and effectiveness of the review process via randomized controlled experiments. All experiments are independently reviewed and approved by an Institutional Review Board (IRB).

Financial Aid: Each paper may designate up to one (1) NeurIPS.cc account email address of a corresponding student author who confirms that they would need the support to attend the conference, and agrees to volunteer if they get selected. To be considered for Financial the student will also need to fill out the Financial Aid application when it becomes available.