Ocean advocates are shifting their focus beyond COP29 to address the climate crisis. The ocean, as the world’s largest carbon sink, plays a crucial role in mitigating global warming. However, marine issues often receive little attention at the annual United Nations climate summit. While the recent COP26 established the “Ocean and Climate Change Dialogue,” discussions around ocean solutions are slowly making their way onto the agenda.
During COP29, marine issues are being discussed at the Ocean Pavilion, a side event featuring panels on topics like marine carbon dioxide removal and sustainable ocean finance. A report from the High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy suggests that actions like eliminating offshore oil and gas production, increasing offshore wind generation, decarbonizing shipping, and restoring marine ecosystems could help limit temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius, a target set by the Paris Agreement.
Despite the focus on financing at COP29, observers believe that any final agreement is unlikely to mention funding for ocean climate solutions. Instead, advocates are emphasizing the importance of countries’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). These contributions outline each nation’s target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the actions they will take to achieve that goal. While many coastal and island nations have included ocean-based climate actions in their NDCs, the international community still needs to prioritize these issues.
With updated NDCs due in February 2025, ocean advocates are urging countries to include specific, measurable actions that can attract funding. This could involve projects like mangrove restoration or tidal energy systems that replace fossil fuel generation. By incorporating these measures into their NDCs, countries can mobilize financing for ocean climate action.
According to experts like Anna-Marie Laura from the Ocean Conservancy, expanding offshore wind is a highly effective way to reduce emissions, yet only a small percentage of NDCs include renewable energy measures. While nature-based solutions like wetland conservation are important, there is a need to recognize and prioritize other mitigation strategies as well.
In conclusion, the urgency of the climate crisis requires immediate and concrete actions to support ocean-based solutions. Advocates are calling for increased financing and recognition of the ocean as a key player in addressing climate change. As countries prepare to submit their updated NDCs, the inclusion of specific ocean-related measures is crucial to accelerating progress towards a more sustainable future.
