COP25: EU Ocean Day highlights the role of oceans in tackling climate change globally

Tomorrow, the European Commission is organising an “EU Ocean Day” during the UN Climate Change Conference (COP25), which is currently taking place in Madrid (Spain) between 2 and 13 December. Healthy oceans are a priority in the fight against climate change. Tomorrow’s “EU Ocean Day” will highlight the role of science in policy-making and the opportunities provided by oceans in tackling the climate challenge globally. Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, Virginijus Sinkevičius, who will attend the COP25 and this event as one of his first international engagements, said: “Fighting climate change and protecting marine life biodiversity is a centrepiece of the EU’s ocean policy. Due to climate change, our oceans are facing serious challenges, which require an urgent and comprehensive response. But oceans are also a part of the solution. The conference is an opportunity for mobilising support for coherent international action and better ocean governance.” In November, the EU Member States adopted conclusions on oceans and seas, stressing that climate change is a direct and existential threat to life in the oceans and seas globally. Member States called for increased action at all levels of government to protect marine and coastal ecosystems. More information is available in a news item.