Scientists Warn Ocean Crisis Deepens as Pressure Builds Ahead of COP31

(MENAFN) Scientists are warning that the world’s oceans are under increasing strain from rising temperatures, pollution, and accelerating biodiversity loss, raising concerns ahead of the upcoming COP31 climate summit that Türkiye is preparing to host later this year.

The concerns were highlighted ahead of World Oceans Day on June 8, a UN-designated observance established in 2008 to raise global awareness about threats facing marine ecosystems.

According to reports, COP31 will mark the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference, where representatives from nearly 200 countries, along with scientists and policymakers, will gather to negotiate global climate commitments. This year’s summit is scheduled to take place at the Antalya Expo Center from November 9 to November 20.

Experts say oceans have long played a critical role in buffering the effects of human-driven climate change, but are now reaching limits under the growing burden of multiple environmental stresses.

Professor Cem Gazioglu, director of Istanbul University’s Institute of Marine Sciences and Management, told Anadolu that oceans have been absorbing the impacts of human activity for decades but are increasingly under pressure.

“Oceans absorb about one-third of global carbon emissions and more than 90% of the excess heat generated by human activities,” Gazioglu said. “However, they are facing thermal stress, acidification, oxygen depletion, plastic pollution, habitat loss and declining biodiversity.”

According to reports, scientists warn that these combined pressures are weakening marine ecosystems and highlight the urgency of stronger global climate action at COP31.

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