As the global community grapples with the multifaceted challenges of climate change, the Climate Africa Media Initiative Centre (CAMIC) is sounding the alarm on one of the most critical fronts: the health of our oceans.
With growing concern over the hazards of overburdening our marine ecosystems, CAMIC is urging immediate and concerted action to safeguard this vital resource for current and future generations.
Oceans cover over 70% of the Earth’s surface and play a fundamental role in regulating the planet’s climate, providing livelihoods for millions of people, and supporting a rich diversity of marine life.
However, human activities such as overfishing, pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change are placing unprecedented stress on marine ecosystems, jeopardizing their resilience and ability to function effectively.
“The health of our oceans is intricately linked to the health of our planet and all life forms that depend on it,” said Aliu Akoshile, Executive Director of CAMIC.
“Yet, we continue to witness the alarming consequences of overexploitation and neglect. It is imperative that we take decisive action to reverse these trends and ensure the long-term sustainability of our oceans.”
The Centre highlights several pressing issues contributing to the degradation of marine environments, including:
• Overfishing: Unsustainable fishing practices, including illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, are depleting fish stocks and disrupting marine food chains.
• Plastic Pollution: The proliferation of plastic waste in our oceans poses a grave threat to marine life, ecosystems, and human health, with devastating consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem services.
• Climate Change: Rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and extreme weather events are exacerbating the vulnerability of marine ecosystems, leading to coral bleaching, habitat loss, and species displacement.
In light of these challenges, CAMIC is calling for urgent action at all levels to protect and restore the health of our oceans. This includes:
Strengthening international cooperation and governance frameworks to combat illegal fishing, regulate marine pollution, and mitigate climate change.
Implementing science-based management measures to ensure sustainable fisheries and marine resource management.
Promoting education, awareness, and public engagement to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of oceans and the need for conservation efforts.
Supporting innovative solutions and technologies to reduce plastic pollution, improve waste management, and enhance ecosystem resilience.
“As custodians of this planet, we have a moral obligation to protect our oceans and preserve them for future generations,” emphasized Mr. Pius Alabi, The Chief Growth Officer.
“Now is the time for decisive action and bold leadership to address the root causes of ocean degradation and chart a course towards a more sustainable and equitable future.”
CAMIC invites governments, civil society organizations, businesses, and individuals to join hands in safeguarding our oceans and building a resilient, blue economy that benefits both people and the planet.
ABOUT CAMIC
Climate Africa Media Initiative Centre (CAMIC) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing environmental sustainability and combating climate change. Through research, advocacy, and collaborative initiatives, CAMIC seeks to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient planet for current and future generations.
CAMIC anchored the Environmental Journalism Workshop in association with Dangote in Lagos and Yola, The Tree Planting Campaign for students with Special Needs, The Jabi Lake Campaign against Plastic pollution, The Green Club Initiative and many more; in a space of less than 5 years, CAMIC has taken giant strides in Climate Advocacy.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Orji Ruth
Program Officer
Email: info@camic-ngo.org
Phone number: +2348035292193