The UK Government has stressed the urgent need to prioritise nature’s protection, with Nature Minister Mary Creagh warning that the ocean is facing a significant threat from global warming, pollution, and acidification.
Speaking at an event during COP29, Minister Creagh highlighted the critical importance of safeguarding marine ecosystems, noting that half of the global economy relies on nature.
She urged that protecting the environment is essential, not just for its own sake but to preserve humanity’s future.
Minister Creagh announced that 20 new projects will be funded under the first phase of the Ocean Community Strengthening and Grants Program.
These initiatives aim to create lasting improvements to marine environments and coastal communities worldwide. The projects are designed to reduce poverty, empower local populations, and bolster the health of marine ecosystems.
“These vital projects will focus on protecting marine habitats in some of the most climate-sensitive regions on Earth,” Creagh explained.
“”These important projects will help protect marine habitats in the most climate-sensitive areas of the Earth. Half of the global economy depends on nature, and we must protect nature not only for its own value but also to save ourselves.”
The UK Minister’s speech underscored the urgent need for action, as the ocean continues to suffer from the combined threats of climate change, pollution, and acidification.
These factors are increasing the risk of catastrophic damage to marine and coastal ecosystems, which could have profound effects on biodiversity and global livelihoods.
Creagh’s words come as part of the UK Government’s continued efforts to ensure nature’s protection remains at the forefront of global discussions, especially at COP29, where tackling environmental degradation and climate change are top priorities.
The Minister’s statement is a call to action for global leaders to recognise the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.
With nature in peril, the world must act swiftly to ensure the survival of oceans, which are not only vital to the environment but to the global economy.
