Taking action for a greener planet: How the health of both land and sea is interrelated

The earth is facing severe challenges – such as climate disruption and biodiversity loss – on land and at sea. Each depends on the other in so many ways. Their health and well-being, too, are closely interlinked.

Climate disruption, specifically rising temperatures due to increased carbon dioxide levels, adds to the risk of irreversible loss of marine and coastal ecosystems through damage to coral reefs and mangroves that support ocean life, and through the migration of species to higher latitudes and altitudes in search of cooler water. 

The oceans are home to a vast array of species, many of which are yet to be discovered. Preserving ocean life is crucial for the overall health and stability of ecosystems, as each species plays a unique role in the food chain and contributes to the overall balance of marine ecosystems.

The ocean and its inhabitants are essential for a healthy planet, providing half of the oxygen we breathe and absorbing significant amounts of carbon dioxide. Coastal wetlands, seagrass beds and mangroves in particular also sequester carbon, helping to regulate the climate. 

 ©Studiodemaan

Climate disruption affects not only marine ecosystems but also terrestrial environments.  As temperatures change and habitats are altered, numerous plant and animal species may experience shifts in their geographic ranges. Some species may be forced to migrate to more suitable habitats, while others encounter reduced availability or the fragmentation of their habitats. These transformations can disrupt ecological communities and have far-reaching consequences for other species that depend on them, potentially leading to extinction.

The health of the planet relies on biodiversity, which directly impacts all aspects of our lives. Without a diverse array of animals, plants and microorganisms, including the unique and densely populated flora and fauna found in rainforests, we cannot sustain the healthy ecosystems on which we depend. Biodiversity provides essential services such as clean air, fresh water, high-quality soil and crop pollination. Additionally, land ecosystems play a critical role in mitigating climate change by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide. Terrestrial ecosystems, such as forests and grasslands, act as carbon sinks by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. Given the dynamic interactions of living organisms in ecosystems, the loss of biodiversity thus has wide-ranging impacts.

Preserving and sustainably managing forests is essential for maintaining the health of the environment, supporting biodiversity, mitigating climate change, regulating water cycles and ensuring the well-being of both human and natural systems.