Marine ecosystems, and consequently their biodiversity, face a multitude of threats, such as pollution, overfishing, climate change, acidification of the oceans, and invasive species. The resulting loss of species and biodiversity affects the ability of marine ecosystems to adapt to climate change, resist perturbations, and play its critical role as a global ecological and climate regulator.
More than 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered with water, and more than 95% of all Earth’s water is found in the oceans. However, less than 5% of the oceans are protected, and those that are do not have effective measures to guarantee that protection. Currently around 60% of the world’s major marine ecosystems are used unsustainably by humans and are being degraded at a rapid pace.
Marine and coastal environments need to be restored to a more natural state to increase biodiversity and recover marine species so they may fulfill their vital ecological roles and this is why we have created ProOcean: Marine Research, Conservation & Innovation.
We are a non-profit civil association created to recover and conserve marine and coastal environments using innovative methods for scientific research, education and outreach, and stakeholder participation to better understand and solve critical problems.
Our efforts are global, with a special emphasis on endangered marine species, their habitats, and coastal communities.
Scientific innovation and education translated into actions presents a unique opportunity in the search for alternatives that foster change that will reduce negative effects of humans on our oceans.
Join us to help achieve our goal for healthier and more productive marine ecosystems around the world and follow us at
www.pro-ocean.org
and our social networks.
Marco García Cruz
President & CEO
Barcelona, Spain
Cathi Campbell
Vice-President
Florida, USA
