Thinking Outside the Blue Box: 6 Unconventional Actions for a Healthy Ocean

By Vivek Saini

World Oceans Day, an annual celebration of our planet’s vast blue expanse, is a stark reminder of the urgent need to protect our oceans. This year’s theme, “Awaken New Depths,” is not just a call to admire but a call to action. It urges us to explore the hidden potential within our oceans and take immediate steps to safeguard their health. While threats like pollution and climate change loom large, a wave of innovation and collaboration is rising to meet these challenges. This listicle delves into six unconventional actions that highlight the exciting possibilities for ocean protection. From the microscopic wonders of the microbiome to the vast reaches of ocean deserts and from harnessing clean energy to mimicking nature’s genius, these actions showcase diverse approaches for us all to become champions for our oceans.

The Ocean Microbiome: A Hidden Powerhouse

Imagine a vast underwater metropolis, bustling with life yet invisible to the naked eye. The ocean microbiome is a universe of microscopic organisms that hold the key to our oceans’ health. Despite their tiny stature, these microbial communities are the unsung heroes of the seas. They silently orchestrate essential processes, breaking down pollutants, recycling nutrients, and shaping global climate. They are the invisible architects of the ocean’s intricate machinery, a marvel that inspires awe and wonder.

The ocean microbiome is a diverse community of microscopic organisms, including bacteria, archaea, protists, and viruses. Though individually small, their collective impact on the ocean ecosystem is immense. One of their most critical functions is nutrient cycling. These microscopic decomposers break down organic matter, the remains of dead plants and animals, into its essential components. This process, known as decomposition, releases vital nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus back into the water column. These nutrients are then readily available for phytoplankton, microscopic marine plants that form the aquatic food web base. A study done by Tara Ocean Foundation researchers delved deeper into this process. Their findings highlight these microorganisms’ critical role in decomposition, a vital step that fuels the entire marine ecosystem. The microbiome’s breakdown process recycles nutrients into the system, ensuring a continuous supply for phytoplankton growth, the base of the aquatic food chain.

Recent research suggests the ocean microbiome plays an even broader role than previously understood. A study published in Science Advances identified specific microbes that produce vitamin B12, an essential nutrient for many marine organisms. This finding suggests the microbiome may contribute directly to the growth and health of various aquatic life forms.

One of the most promising functions of the ocean microbiome is bioremediation. Specific microbial communities have the remarkable ability to break down pollutants like oil spills and microplastics. This natural process offers hope for cleaning up polluted marine environments. Research published in the journal mBio investigated this potential. Their study suggests that specific microbial communities can degrade microplastics and other contaminants. By understanding and nurturing these “clean-up crews,” we can play a crucial role in restoring the health of our oceans.

Ocean Deserts: Food Chain Oases in a Barren Sea

Despite their seemingly barren appearance, vast stretches of ocean called ocean deserts play a surprisingly vital role in the marine ecosystem. While nutrient levels may be low, recent research published in Science suggests these regions offer unique advantages for specific species. A study by researchers at the University of Exeter highlights the complex factors influencing primary productivity in the ocean, including ocean deserts. Ocean deserts can act as hidden havens, stepping stones for migrating animals, and even guardians of the carbon cycle. These seemingly lifeless areas can provide critical habitat for particular creatures. Some ocean deserts boast high dissolved oxygen levels, offering a refuge for species sensitive to low-oxygen zones. These low-oxygen areas, sometimes called dead zones, can be lethal to marine life. A National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) resource discusses the dangers of ocean dead zones. Understanding the factors influencing oxygen distribution in the ocean is crucial for protecting vulnerable species.

Image: During upwelling, wind-displaced surface waters are replaced by cold, nutrient-rich water that wells up from below.

Additionally, seasonal upwelling events can transform these deserts into temporary oases. Upwelling occurs when nutrient-rich deep ocean water rises to the surface, stimulated by wind patterns or changes in ocean currents. This influx of nutrients stimulates the growth of phytoplankton, the base of the marine food web. This sudden abundance attracts a variety of marine life for feeding and breeding.

Ocean deserts also play a crucial role in animal migration. These vast stretches act as stepping stones, providing rest and refuelling points for migrating animals on long journeys. Whales and other large marine animals may utilise these areas for foraging or resting during their migrations. Furthermore, these seemingly barren regions may offer migration corridors, allowing animals to navigate between more prosperous feeding grounds. Research by the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) highlights the importance of protecting these corridors for migratory species.

Underwater Wind Farms: Powering the Future While Protecting the Seas?

Harnessing wind energy is a critical strategy in the fight against climate change. With access to more potent and consistent winds, offshore wind farms have emerged as a promising renewable energy source. However, a new frontier is emerging: underwater wind turbines. While this technology offers exciting possibilities for clean energy production, potential environmental impacts must be carefully considered to protect the seas.

Benefits of Underwater Turbines: Underwater wind farms offer several potential advantages over traditional, surface-based wind farms. Firstly, they could access stronger and steadier winds at greater depths, potentially generating more electricity, as highlighted in a 2023 report by the World Economic Forum. Secondly, they may have a lower visual impact on coastlines, a concern for some communities. Additionally, they could be located further away from shipping lanes, reducing potential conflicts with maritime traffic, as mentioned on the European Union’s website discussing offshore wind energy.

Image: Offshore wind turbines producing renewable energy and green energy in the Belgian North Sea.

While the potential benefits of underwater wind farms are significant, we must approach this technology cautiously. The construction process could disrupt marine life and habitats, and the noise generated by the turbines could disturb marine animals, particularly those that rely on sound for communication and navigation. This understanding should prompt us to evaluate the environmental impact of underwater wind farms carefully, ensuring that our pursuit of clean energy does not come at the cost of our oceans.

Ocean Acidification: The Silent Threat Dissolving Marine Skeletons

The vast oceans may seem impervious to human influence. However, a hidden threat lurks beneath the waves: ocean acidification. This phenomenon, caused by the increasing absorption of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), is profoundly altering the ocean’s chemistry, with potentially devastating consequences for marine ecosystems. The ocean naturally absorbs a significant portion of the CO2 released by human activities like burning fossil fuels. While this helps regulate atmospheric CO2 levels, it comes at a cost. As the ocean absorbs more CO2, it undergoes a chemical reaction that increases acidity. This may seem like a subtle change, but even a slight decrease in pH (acidity) can have significant consequences for marine life.

The increased acidity disrupts the delicate balance of carbonate ions in the ocean, essential building blocks for the shells and skeletons of many marine organisms, such as corals, oysters, and clams. This is a significant finding from a study published in Science Advances, highlighting that these creatures struggle to build and maintain their protective structures with fewer carbonate ions. In severe cases, shells and skeletons can even dissolve.

The consequences of ocean acidification extend far beyond individual organisms. Weakened coral reefs and vital marine habitats become more susceptible to damage and disease. Shellfish populations, crucial to the food chain and coastal economies, may decline. The overall health and productivity of marine ecosystems are at stake. This is a ripple effect throughout the ocean. Ocean acidification is a complex global challenge, but solutions exist. Reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change are essential steps. Technological advancements and improved management practices can help minimise the impact on marine life.

Biomimicry: Learning from Nature’s Genius for Ocean Solutions

Faced with the challenges threatening our oceans, we can turn to a powerful tool: biomimicry. This innovative approach seeks inspiration from nature’s time-tested solutions to develop sustainable technologies and practices. Scientists and engineers are developing new ways to protect and restore our oceans by studying remarkable adaptations and strategies of marine organisms.

One example of biomimicry in action is the development of non-toxic antifouling coatings. Imagine ships gliding effortlessly through the water, free of drag and extra fuel consumption. In the natural world, many marine organisms, like barnacles and mussels, readily attach themselves to ship hulls, causing this problem. Inspired by sharks’ smooth, self-cleaning skin, scientists have created coatings that mimic this texture. These coatings hinder the attachment of unwanted organisms, allowing ships to move more efficiently.

Biomimicry can also inspire solutions for a significant challenge: ocean cleanup. The intricate filtering mechanisms of certain whales, like the humpback whale, are being studied to design more efficient filters for removing microplastics from the ocean. Imagine a technology that mimics these natural filters, helping us remove harmful pollutants from our waters. Additionally, scientists are looking to the adhesive properties of mussels, which can cling to rocks in turbulent waters, to develop more substantial and more durable adhesives for underwater applications.

By learning from nature’s genius, biomimicry offers a promising path towards a more sustainable future for our oceans. From designing cleaner ships to developing innovative cleanup technologies, biomimicry holds the potential to address a range of ocean challenges. As we continue to explore and understand the wonders of the marine world, new biomimicry solutions are sure to emerge, helping us restore and protect the health of our oceans for generations to come.

The Blue Economy: Harnessing Ocean Resources for Sustainable Growth

The vastness of the ocean holds immense potential for economic prosperity. The concept of the blue economy has emerged as a strategy to harness this potential sustainably. It focuses on utilising ocean resources for economic growth while protecting marine ecosystems’ health and improving livelihoods. This approach recognises the ocean’s significance in fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transport, renewable energy, and marine biotechnology.

Sustainable practices are the cornerstone of a thriving blue economy. Fishing that prioritises the long-term health of fish stocks over short-term gains is crucial. Imagine a future where responsible fishing practices ensure a steady supply of fish for generations to come. The World Bank offers a clear introduction to the blue economy, highlighting this very point and the importance of responsible practices. This requires careful management and quotas to prevent overfishing. Similarly, aquaculture, farming fish and other marine organisms must minimise environmental impact and promote responsible feed sourcing.

The London School of Economics explores the complexities of balancing economic and environmental considerations. The blue economy faces challenges. Striking a balance between economic development and environmental protection requires careful planning and international cooperation. Overexploitation of resources, pollution from land and sea, and climate change all threaten the ocean’s health. However, by prioritising sustainability and working together, the blue economy offers a promising path forward. We can harness the ocean’s bounty for economic growth while ensuring its health for future generations.

References:

https://fondationtaraocean.org/en/mission-microbiomes/marine-microbiome-majority-invisible-ocean

https://fondationtaraocean.org/en/foundation

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2290810

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7186362

https://chelsea.co.uk/applications/measure-phytoplankton-primary-productivity

https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/hazards/hypoxia

https://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/facts/upwelling.html

https://www.cms.int

https://group.vattenfall.com/press-and-media/newsroom/2023/vattenfalls-offshore-wind-turbines-to-test-sustainable-food-production

https://energy.ec.europa.eu/topics/renewable-energy/offshore-renewable-energy_en

https://www.noaa.gov/ocean-acidification