Scientists warn that the ocean is at its limit, but it is still possible to reverse the damage.

Madrid, June 6 (EFEverde).– The ocean is at its limit due to climate change and overfishing, according to a new international study sponsored by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), although almost half of the scientists surveyed remain optimistic about its recovery if urgent and effective measures are adopted.

The survey, conducted by the consulting firm GlobeScan and based on the opinions of 58 marine experts from around the world, reveals that more than 66% consider climate change to be the main threat to ocean biodiversity, followed by overfishing and habitat degradation. The study is published on the eve of World Oceans Day (June 8) and the upcoming UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France (June 9-13).

Sustainable fishing and biodiversity

The report , "Conserving Life at Sea: Sustainable Fishing Boosts Biodiversity," compiles success stories where fishermen have adapted their practices to minimize their impact on vulnerable species such as Indian Ocean turtles, Eastern Pacific sharks, and the Celtic Sea porpoise.

The UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy for the Ocean and author of the report's foreword, Peter Thomson, emphasizes that "sustainable fisheries work best when governments, industries, communities, and organizations work together." The document highlights that seafood production and ecosystem protection can go hand in hand.

Scientific optimism and political urgency

Despite the severity of the diagnosis, 45% of respondents are hopeful, citing advances in marine science, stricter regulations against plastic pollution, and international treaties such as the High Seas Treaty (BBNJ) as key tools.

The High Seas Treaty, which still awaits ratification by 60 countries before it can enter into force, seeks to protect marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions.

European support for the High Seas Treaty, which has now reached 28 ratifications and paves the way for its entry into force.

“Science and good management can reverse the decline of the oceans,” says Francis Neat, a professor at the World Maritime University (Sweden). Dr. Beth Polidoro, MSC research director, adds that it is still possible to change course: “Sustainable fisheries are proving that millions can be fed while respecting ecosystems.”

Global voices from five continents

Experts from more than 20 countries, including Mexico, Japan, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, and South Africa, agree that the oceans show remarkable resilience, but insist that solutions must be accelerated.

“A sick sea is going to make our lives more difficult. We need to act now,” warns Dr. Alexander Fordyce of the University of Oxford. Meanwhile, Spanish researcher Marta Coll (ICM-CSIC) affirms that fully protected areas “are achieving the most effective results.”

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