Abstract
The oceans are in trouble. We have lost 90 percent of large fish, at least ten percent of the world's coral reefs have been degraded beyond recovery, and the oceans can no longer be considered an unlimited mixing zone for the dilution of pollution. Meanwhile less than one percent of the oceans are protected. To make matters worse, we now must recognize that there is an overarching layer of human-induced global climate change threats to coastal and marine ecosystems, which include sea-level rise, increased air and water temperatures, and changes in weather patterns. This paper reviews the relationship between the marine ecosystem and climate, and the very powerful transformations in their interactions as the result of climate changes. It then turns to some of the specific impacts of each on the other and the manner in which the traditional marine problems (over-fishing, habitat destruction, etc.) will be exacerbated. In the end, the need for an integrated set of strategies to both protect/enhance marine and address climate systems is described. This paper suggests that philanthropy support efforts that enhance the integration of climate in oceans conservation, so that the two realms are no longer considered separately. The goal is to present the climate and marine issues to funders in a way that demonstrates their interactions and synergies, making the case for collaboration and integration. And, where integration is not yet possible or underway, marine funders should consider whether their grants support enhancing the resilience of the ecosystems most at risk from climate change. While climate change is an ominous threat, “there’s got to be a morning after” the “Day After Tomorrow.”
Introduction: Oceanographic Perspective on Climate Variability
The global ocean supports habitats and many forms of marine wildlife. In fact, the ocean hums with life in an interconnected web, from the tiniest shrimp to the great blue whales........
