Why COP31 Must Elevate the Ocean’s Critical Role in Fighting Climate Change

COP30 in Belém marked a crucial moment by establishing a task force to include oceans in national climate plans. This effort, while modest, gives hope to those concerned about climate issues. The task force is expected to gain more attention at COP31, where Turkey and Australia will lead.

The Ocean Task Force, spearheaded by Brazil and France, aims to help countries incorporate ocean health into their climate goals. Each nation sets these goals every five years, with the next updates due in 2025 and 2030. This initiative builds upon the Blue NDC Challenge, which started at the 3rd UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France, in June 2025. At COP30, a significant investment of $116 billion was announced to support ocean protection and restoration efforts.

Even though 78% of countries now reference oceans in their climate commitments—up 39% from previous cycles—big challenges remain. For instance, many countries lack clear targets, deadlines, and financing for ocean-related solutions. The Blue Ocean Foundation highlights these gaps as obstacles to effective ocean stewardship.

Focusing on oceans is smart. They absorb about one-third of global carbon emissions and produce half of the world’s oxygen. With the ocean acting as a “carbon sink,” its health is vital in the fight against climate change.

However, many left COP30 feeling that the discussions didn’t go far enough. While there was acknowledgment of the interconnected crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, experts like Professor Alexander Turra from the University of São Paulo believe more bold actions are needed. He emphasizes that recognizing the ocean’s role in carbon mitigation could open new pathways for climate solutions.

The United Nations has declared this decade as the Ocean Decade, aiming to protect 30% of oceans by 2030. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports that oceans have warmed since 1970, affecting marine life and habitats. The potential for the ocean economy could reach $3 trillion by 2030, contributing 5-6% to the global economy and creating around 40 million jobs, according to the OECD.

Oriana Romano, head of the OECD’s Blue Economy in Cities Program, noted that from 1995 to 2020, the ocean economy doubled, reaching $22.6 trillion. The ocean not only feeds 3 billion people but also facilitates 80% of global trade and carries most internet data. In Rio de Janeiro, ocean-related activities made up 30% to 44% of the state’s GDP. However, Romano warns that the blue economy faces challenges, such as plastic pollution. For a sustainable future, local communities, governments, and businesses need to collaborate effectively.

As we look forward, integrating ocean health into climate strategies seems essential for a resilient future. The road ahead is challenging, but with ongoing commitment, there’s hope for change.



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