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New COST project to advance international research in marine connectivity
Oceans and seas cover more than 70% of the Earth and deliver multiple ecosystem services, including some that shape human societies (e.g., food provision, climate regulation). Marine assets represent the 7th largest economy in the world. Sustainable management of the oceans and seas is, therefore, essential. Yet, their protection lags far behind that of terrestrial habitats.
Marine ecosystems are highly vulnerable to anthropogenic pressures, and most experience multiple, concurrent threats (e.g., habitat loss, overfishing, warming). Over the last century, 90% of marine top predators have disappeared and many coastal and oceanic habitats have been destroyed or severely degraded. Unprecedented losses in marine biodiversity are occurring, compromising the health (function and resilience) of ecosystems. Given the importance of marine wildlife and habitats to society and the linked fate of marine and terrestrial ecosystems, rapid, informed actions are needed to mitigate unwanted consequences of ongoing changes.