@mitty

Photos and words by @mitty // "The next chapter of life on earth will be defined by the actions we take now. To realize what's possible, the ocean must be at the top of our list of solutions. Mangroves, seagrasses, and coral reefs are some of the most important ecosystems on the planet. And yet, we have lost 50% of these productive ecosystems. Marine ecosystems are a critically important asset in our economy and a key component of our planetary wealth. We need scientists, their knowledge, their stories, and their unique efforts and experiences to work shoulder-to-shoulder with governments and community leaders to protect our blue natural capital. That is our wealth as humanity." Last week's UN Ocean Conference 2022 unveiled unparalleled strides forward in lifting ocean solutions to new heights. World leaders, scientists, business pioneers, ocean advocates, and conservations came together to scale up ocean action, explore innovative solutions, and honor the ocean as the partner we need to combat our current environmental challenges. The Earth holds a bounty of solutions to successfully and proactively address climate change. Every moment of each day the ocean displays its strength, resilience, and readiness to be an endless resource to all life on this blue planet. We just need to open our eyes to see it and give our seas a chance to thrive. From carbon capture, oxygen production, food provisions, climate regulation, biodiversity fortification, and so much more — all these areas are supported by the ocean's very existence. It is up to us to recognize its importance and the incredible value it bestows to all corners of our lives whether you reside at the tips of the seas, sandy plains, or on the tops of the mountains. It is all connected. And the #UNOC2022 was an incredible start to our next chapter on Earth. #TurningTheTide #30before30 #oceansolutions #bluecarbon #bluenaturalcapital