The oceans and its resources are the lifelines of Asia and the Pacific. While being the resource for some of the region’s key economic sectors, such as seaborne trade, fisheries and tourism, oceans are also the source of well-being, culture and identity for thousands of coastal communities. The conditions of the oceans are inextricably linked to the pathways to sustainable development in Asia and the Pacific.
Various indicators, however, are suggesting that the oceans are becoming more fragile with the pressing impacts of climate change and marine pollution as two of the key factors behind their deterioration. Unsustainable economic practices, such as overfishing, are reducing fish stock to biologically unsustainable levels. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has led to a temporary shutdown of industrial activities, closing schools and other institutions, significantly reducing transport and human mobility worldwide. This has resulted in a substantial reduction in pollution. The outbreak is providing an opportunity for fish stocks to recover, and more generally to promote more resilient and sustainable practices.
Many of the challenges in the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans and marine resources lie in the transboundary and highly complex nature of ocean management. This is coupled with the fragmented understanding of the interaction between oceans and human activities. In this context, multi-stakeholder dialogues and partnerships are essential to effectively address the current fragmented actions related to oceans.