Sustainable Development Goals SDGs Goal 14: Life Below Water

What is SDGs Goal 14?

SDGs Goal 14 is “Life Below Water,” with its mission statement being “Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources” by 2030.

This goal has 10 targets and 10 indicators measuring the world’s success in this aspect. For example, the targets include:

Prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds,
sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts and
minimize and address the impacts of ocean acidification, including through enhanced scientific cooperation at all levels.

The world’s largest ecosystem, oceans are home to nearly a million known species that support the global population’s economic, social and environmental needs. However, issues such as pollution and ocean warming have become severe. Human activities have led to an alarming level of degradation in the marine environment, such as seen in coral reefs and sea animals.

According to the UN, the temporary shutdown of activities as well as reduced human mobility and resource demands due to the COVID-19 pandemic may have been a chance for oceans to recuperate. We need sustainable solutions to protect and maintain this valuable resource.

Oceans around Japan

Japan consists of many islands of various sizes. Therefore, it is surrounded by oceans that have been the source of food and rich culture. Climate change can have devastating effects on fisheries and the economy. Like other parts of the world, human activities like overfishing threaten the ecosystem and have also resulted in the disappearance of species.

Restoring a beautiful oceanic treasure: Japan’s disappearing coral reefs

Due to ocean warming and pollution, coral bleaching is especially problematic in Okinawa. This article introduces organizations that operate projects to protect and restore the coral reefs and ways each of us can contribute.
Restoring a beautiful oceanic treasure: Japan’s disappearing coral reefs

IUCN Red List sheds light on endangered species in Japan

This article explores IUCN’s Red List and Japan’s endangered species. The preservation of vulnerable and near-endangered species is an important issue, and proper data such as Red Lists are needed to tackle such situations.
IUCN Red List sheds light on endangered species in Japan

How climate change is hurting Hokkaido’s kombu production

This article lets us see how global warming can damage fisheries, the economy and food culture all at once. The decline in kelp growing areas in Hokkaido’s waters means bad news for everyone because other forms of sea life depend on kombu for their survival. It also shows that the ecosystem is delicate and can be thrown off balance by one particular change.
How climate change is hurting Hokkaido’s kombu production