Headline: Ocean Atlas. Facts and Figures on the Threats to Our Marine Ecosystems

Without the ocean and its resources, the wealth and wellbeing enjoyed by some of the world’s population would not exist. But the future of this unique ecosystem faces a grave threat today. That is because the principle of the freedom of the seas, which has held for hundreds of years, and which granted everyone unlimited access to the ocean and its resources, has resulted in overfishing, the loss of biodiversity, and ocean pollution.

Our oceans and coasts are important parts of our environment – and they urgently need our protection. The atlas you’re holding is intended to illustrate the important role played by the ocean and its ecosystems – not only for people living on the coasts but for all of us.