We not only rely on the oceans for food, livelihoods, transport and trade but, as the lungs of our planet and its largest carbon sink, they also play a vital role in regulating the global climate.

"The upcoming United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development will provide impetus and a common framework for action", the UN chief said, urging governments and all concerned to commit innovation and science to conserve and sustain the world's oceans.

In January, the Decade of Action and Delivery opened to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): "Protection of marine biodiversity is of essential importance as we progress with the implementation of SDG14", Mr. Mohammad-Bande said, referring to the 14th global goal, to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.

the oceans for food, livelihoods, transport and trade but, as the lungs of our planet and its largest carbon sink, they also play a vital role in regulating the global climate.

"Today, sea levels are rising due to climate change, threatening lives and livelihoods in low-lying nations and coastal cities and communities around the world", Mr. Guterres reminded.