The Ocean: 

Always Important – Especially Now!

The oceans have always been a source of awe, mystery, adventure, and imagination.  In material terms however, oceans are a massive, dynamic force that shapes climate, sustains unknown and extraordinary biodiversity, and supports the livelihoods of billions on planet Earth. But now, the importance of our oceans is reaching a new level of urgency and visibility. Environmental, economic, and social challenges are accumulating, impairing ocean resilience and ultimately, threatening our critical dependence on it.

Why is this happening now? How can ocean advocates elevate the oceans in global conversations, innovation agendas, and investment strategies?  How can we envision a sustainable strategy for ocean use that defines a resilient, prosperous future for humanity and the ocean?

The Ocean’s Role in the Global Ecosystem

Oceans cover more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, exerting a critical role in climate regulation. They absorb over 90% of the excess heat generated by greenhouse gas emissions and capture a quarter of the CO₂ we emit each year. Ocean currents steer weather systems and re-distribute heat around the globe, underscoring their role in large-scale climate stabilization that supports life on land and sea.

The ocean is also home to an astonishing diversity of life. Coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and deep-sea trenches all host ecosystems with not fully characterized biodiversity. These ecosystems provide humanity with crucial assets, including food, coastal protection, and carbon sequestration. A healthy ocean means health for mankind!

Increasing Pressures on Marine Environments

Though massive, the ocean is facing increasing pressure from human activity. Climate change is warming and acidifying marine waters, disrupting ecosystems and threatening species that are sensitive to temperature or pH shifts. Coral bleaching, shifting fish populations, and increased storm intensity are the earliest reflection of these alterations.

Pollution, particularly from plastics and chemicals, continues to impact marine habitats – and humans. An estimated 11 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean each year—affecting everything from plankton to whales. Industrial runoff and untreated sewage further degrade water quality and threaten marine life.

Overfishing has pushed many fish stocks to the brink of collapse. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), over a third of global fish stocks are being exploited at unsustainable levels. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing compounds the problem, undermining conservation efforts and the economic sustainability of coastal communities.

Together, these pressures are creating a complex web of challenges that demand urgent and systemic responses.

The Imperative for Sustainable Solutions—and the Economic Opportunities

Amid these challenges, there is a growing realization that we must find a better balance between ocean use and ocean stewardship. This imperative is the basis of the blue economy— at its core an approach to economic development that is sustainable, inclusive, and cognizant of the health of ocean ecosystems.

Innovations in marine renewable energy, such as offshore wind, wave, and tidal technologies, provide a path for decarbonizing energy systems. Sustainable aquaculture and responsible fisheries management can deliver food to a growing global population while preserving marine stocks. Clean shipping and low-impact tourism can be reimagined through the lens of sustainability.

These emerging industries aren’t just good for the planet—they’re good for business. The Orgnanization for Economic Cooperation and Development estimates the a doubling in ocean economy by 2030, reaching $3 trillion and supporting 40 million jobs. Nations and investors that act early to foster sustainable ocean industries will be best positioned to benefit from this growth.

Policy Drivers and International Initiatives Supporting the Blue Economy

The momentum for sustainable ocean use is being reinforced by policy frameworks and international collaboration. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14—”Life Below Water”—sets targets for conserving and sustainably using ocean resources. It has galvanized national governments, NGOs, and businesses to commit to marine conservation and sustainable practices.

At the 2022 UN Ocean Conference in Lisbon, world leaders emphasized the need for science-based policy and equitable ocean governance. Regional frameworks, such as the EU Blue Economy Strategy, and national programs, like Norway’s ocean innovation clusters, are translating global goals into concrete initiatives.

Meanwhile, financial institutions are beginning to incorporate ocean health into risk assessments and investment decisions. The rise of blue bonds—debt instruments that finance marine conservation—demonstrates a shift toward leveraging capital markets for sustainable outcomes.

Technological innovation is also being mobilized at scale. From satellite-based monitoring of fishing fleets to AI-driven climate modeling and zero-emission propulsion systems (like foiling electric vessels), the tools to manage our marine footprint more intelligently are rapidly evolving.

Why Now?

The growing importance of the oceans is not a distant issue—it is a present-day reality. As the climate crisis intensifies, the global community is seeking strategies that support recovery of ocean habitat and prosperity.  Ocean resilience is an evermore frequent topic in government, business, and among citizens.

At Foil Forward, we believe in accelerating this shift. Whether it’s through smarter marine transportation, cleaner technologies, or deeper awareness of ocean systems, the time to act is now.

Because when we protect and restore the ocean, we don’t just safeguard marine life—we invest in a future where people and planet thrive together.