Why is Marine Science Important?
Published on 8/1/24
Written by Jessica Colla
So … why is marine biology (and other ocean-based sciences) important anyway? I’m so glad you asked!
If you are curious about the importance of the ocean, interested in studying the ocean, or you simply love the ocean … this the blog for you!
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Some people ask me “what is so important about marine biology, anyway?” Well, I counter with … why ISN’T Marine Biology important!?
Like most science fields, it’s essential, even if the reasons aren’t always obvious. For instance, scientists study the human body so to improve health care and advance medicine. Similarly, studying marine biology helps us understand and protect the ocean, a vital resource to life on Earth.
The ocean, its inhabitants, and its impact on us is vital to life on earth!
We are still learning about how the ocean affects us and how interconnected it is with our everyday lives. Here are a few well-documented reasons why the ocean is important and should be studied:
The Global Food Industry:
The ocean plays a crucial role in the global food industry. According to the UN, approximately 10-12% of the world’s population - 870 million people - depend on fisheries and aquaculture for their livelihoods. Over 3 billion people in the world rely on food from the ocean as a primary source of animal protein. I’ll say that again …
THREE BILLION PEOPLE (that’s over 40% of all people on earth!) RELY ON THE OCEAN FOR FOOD!
In Hawaii, for example, fish and other ocean-sourced proteins like crustaceans & mollusks, can make up to 90% of a person’s protein diet.
A weekend haul of fish caught by our ‘ohana,' supporting several extended families - photo by Bryan Barr
Oxygen Production:
Did you know that the ocean produces most of the oxygen we breathe?
The ocean covers more than 70% of the Earth’s surface and is home to an estimated 45-billion tons of phytoplankton - tiny algae at the base of the ocean food chain. These remarkable organisms produce 50 to 80% of the oxygen in our atmosphere!
But phytoplankton aren’t the only oxygen-producing powerhouses! Other marine plants and plant-like organisms, such as seagrass meadows, kelp forests, and mangroves, also play a vital role in oxygen production and carbon storage. These coastal ecosystems help sustain the air we breathe but also provide critical habitats for countless marine species.
So, the next time you take a deep breath, thank the ocean!
Global Carbon Sink:
The ocean also acts as a massive carbon sink, absorbing roughly 30% of human-produced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from the atmosphere. Phytoplankton, much like land plants, absorb carbon during photosynthesis, converting it into food (glucose) and releasing oxygen. In addition, physical processes like wind and turbulence help mix the ocean, creating more opportunities for CO2 absorption.
THE OCEAN IS THE WORLD’S LARGEST CARBON SINK, ABSORBING 30% OF OUR CO2 FROM THE ATMOSPHERE!
Medical Advancement:
Many medicines have been derived from marine organisms. In fact, the ocean holds many secrets that could advance modern medicine. Marine organisms often have unique biological processes, such as the chemical defenses of sessile animals like corals and sponges, which have evolved to compensate for their inability to flee predators. These chemical compounds found in fish have also been used to treat bacterial infections, cancer symptoms, reduce antibiotic resistance, and more. As we continue to study these organisms, the potential for medical breakthroughs grows.
We have yet to unlock the biological secrets of most marine organisms that may be the answer to our own biology. Like the famous James Gardner quote emphasizes - “we know more about the surface of the moon than we do about the sea floor”.
These medicinal properties are so important, scientists are creating synthetic re-constructions of ocean-based chemicals in labs to treat modern ailments, infections, and diseases.
Weather & global Climate Regulation:
The ocean is the world’s largest basin of water - covering 71% of the Earth surface. Needless to say, it plays a huge role in regulating the global climate!
A healthy ocean helps to regulate the earth’s climate. The ocean can absorb large amounts of heat, which helps to regulate global temperatures. In fact, the ocean absorbs up to 90% of Earth’s atmospheric heat. As anthropogenic (human-caused) climate change progresses, the ocean’s ability to absorb heat and CO2 will be affected, potentially increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes.
Tourism & Recreation Industry:
The ocean provides countless opportunities for tourism and recreation. Coastal businesses like hotels, restaurants, aquariums, marinas, boat tours, and ocean sports facilities all depend heavily on the ocean to thrive.
According to NOAA, over 2.4 million people in the U.S. work in ocean-based tourism and recreation – and that includes me! In Hawaii alone, approximately 106,000 people are employed in this sector, contributing over $7 billion to the state's economy each year.
Globally, Ocean Wealth reports that more than 350 million people visit coral reef destinations across 70 countries each year, with coral reef tourism generating an estimated annual value of $36 billion!
Final Thoughts:
So back to the original question: WHY is marine biology important?
Hopefully, after exploring just a few ways the ocean impacts our lives, from providing food and oxygen to regulating the climate, it's clear that studying marine biology is essential. The more we learn about the ocean and its intricate ecosystems, the better equipped we are to protect and conserve this vital environment. Marine biology isn’t just about exploring the sea—it’s about understanding the systems that keep our planet functioning; our food, our oxygen, our climate, our livelihoods—it's the very foundation of life on Earth!
As the renowned marine biologist Sylvia Earle once said, “if you think the ocean isn’t important, try to imagine Earth without it. Mars comes to mind. No ocean, no life.”
Your curiosity and passion for the ocean can make a real impact in creating a sustainable future for our planet. If you’re excited to see how you can make a difference, take our fun personality quiz: "What Type of Ocean Career Would You Have?" Discover your ideal role in ocean science & conservation and start your journey in this fascinating field today!
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