Protecting the oceans: a vital challenge

The ocean plays a vital role for many countries — supporting development, food security, jobs, and the economy. Yet today, it is under growing threat from increasing human pressures.

From coastlines to the high seas, marine ecosystems are deteriorating due to unsustainable activities: overfishing, intensive aquaculture, pollution from wastewater, industry, agriculture, and plastic waste, rising maritime traffic, and coastal development…

By absorbing a significant share of atmospheric CO₂, the ocean is a key regulator of the global climate. But it is also suffering from the impacts of climate change, which are disrupting habitats and marine biodiversity.

In response to these challenges, AFD has strengthened its commitments to protect the ocean. These efforts encompass both marine-focused projects and those in coastal areas or watersheds that affect ocean health.

Find out more about AFD Group and the Ocean

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