Marine Ecosystem Degradation

Key messages  Marine ecosystem degradation involves the loss of benefits to society; it can occur as a result of natural causes or human activity.  Impacts of climate change, including ocean acidification, are inherently global. Widespread local activities can also have cumulative global effects. The many components of both kinds of impacts interact.  The rate of marine ecosystem degradation is accelerating due to economic growth and population growth.  Improved assessments of ecosystem state should be based on integrated, interdisciplinary observations that include biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.  Further international policy action is needed to reduce the drivers of marine degradation, improve marine literacy and develop a global approach to marine conservation.