Part 8/10:
Understanding the ocean is vital beyond academic curiosity. The health of marine ecosystems has direct implications for the global climate and human societies. Biodiversity declines, plastic pollution, and rising sea levels threaten coastal communities and entire nations.
Mapping efforts like Seabed 2030, an ambitious initiative aiming to produce the definitive, high-resolution map of the entire ocean floor by 2030, are essential steps toward addressing these challenges. A comprehensive map can help scientists better understand ocean currents, sediment distributions, and natural resources, guiding policies to combat climate change and protect ecosystems.