The world is now facing unprecedented challenges due to climate change, with marine ecosystems and wildlife suffering immensely. Recent reports indicate that the average global sea surface temperature reached a record high of 21.06°C in February 2024, surpassing the previous record of 20.98°C set in August 2023 [e724fb48]. This alarming increase is attributed to human-caused climate change, particularly the absorption of excess heat from fossil fuels and deforestation, with the ocean absorbing approximately 90% of this excess heat [e724fb48].
Marine heat waves have been a significant factor in these rising temperatures, with extreme conditions recorded in the North Atlantic, where temperatures approached a 3.0°C increase above pre-industrial levels during 2023 [e724fb48]. The impacts of these rising temperatures are far-reaching, affecting not only marine wildlife but also the economies that depend on these ecosystems. For instance, the coral reefs have lost half their capacity to provide essential ecosystem services from 1950 to 2021, and 80% of staghorn coral in the Florida Keys has been killed due to marine heat waves [e724fb48].
The consequences of these changes are evident in the fishing industry, where disasters have been reported affecting key species such as sardines, salmon, and cod. Between 2014 and 2016, fisheries in Baja California experienced a 15-58% decrease in landings due to these extreme conditions [e724fb48]. Additionally, the warmer oceans are reducing the ability of marine environments to absorb carbon dioxide, further exacerbating climate change [e724fb48].
In July 2023, UN Secretary-General António Guterres declared the era of global boiling, emphasizing the urgent need for action to combat climate change [e724fb48]. The Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, aims to reduce climate pollution and promote sustainable practices, but the effectiveness of such policies remains to be seen as the impacts of climate change continue to escalate [e724fb48].
As marine wildlife is forced to adapt to these extreme conditions, many species are now feeding closer to shore, leading to increased entanglements and strandings [e724fb48]. The situation calls for immediate and viable solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems and to protect the livelihoods that depend on them. The scientific community continues to stress the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the involvement of policymakers and the public in implementing effective climate policies to address this critical issue [9c0ba543].
In light of these developments, it is essential to recognize and take action against the human contributions to climate change. By protecting marine habitats, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting sustainable practices, we can work towards a more sustainable future for both humans and the ocean [1fd4806a].