Blue One Health, Climate, Health and Sustainability: integrating ocean and coastal systems into the 2030 Agenda

The ocean covers over 70% of the Earth’s surface and contains 95% of its biosphere. It plays a vital role in regulating the climate by absorbing 25% of anthropogenic CO₂ and 90% of excess heat. It also produces over half of the planet’s oxygen, and supports billions of people through providing food, livelihoods, and cultural resources. However, climate change, pollution, and overexploitation are degrading marine ecosystems, threatening biodiversity, food security, and climate resilience. 

The ‘Blue One Health approach’ builds on the ‘One Health concept’ by incorporating marine and coastal ecosystems, and promotes integrated solutions for human, animal, and environmental health.  

This session will bring together experts and policymakers to explore how Blue One Health can help to achieve the SDGs, especially SDGs 3 (Health), 13 (Climate), and 14 (Life Below Water), and inform strategies for achieving the 2030 Agenda.