11.4 Mitigation and adaptation strategies

Climate change poses significant threats to our oceans, but there are strategies to mitigate its impacts. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions to enhancing carbon sequestration in blue carbon ecosystems, these efforts aim to protect marine life and maintain ocean health.

Coastal communities are adapting to rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Through infrastructure improvements, ecosystem-based adaptation, and early warning systems, these measures help build resilience. International cooperation and nature-based solutions further support global efforts to address ocean challenges.

Climate Change Mitigation Strategies

Strategies for ocean climate mitigation

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• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions through transition to renewable energy sources (solar, wind) improved energy efficiency in industries and transportation led to decreased carbon footprint
• Enhance carbon sequestration by protecting and restoring blue carbon ecosystems (mangroves, seagrasses, salt marshes) absorb and store significant amounts of atmospheric CO2
• Sustainable fisheries management implements catch limits and quotas establishes marine protected areas (Great Barrier Reef Marine Park) to preserve fish populations and ecosystem balance
• Reduce ocean pollution by implementing stricter regulations on plastic waste improves wastewater treatment systems decreases harmful impacts on marine life
• Promote sustainable aquaculture practices developing low-impact farming methods (integrated multi-trophic aquaculture) uses alternative feed sources (algae-based) reduces pressure on wild fish stocks

Effectiveness of coastal adaptation measures

• Coastal infrastructure improvements build sea walls and levees implement beach nourishment programs develop flood-resistant buildings and structures (stilted houses)
• Ecosystem-based adaptation restores and protects coral reefs as natural barriers creates living shorelines with native vegetation (mangroves) establishes artificial reefs to reduce wave energy
• Managed retreat relocates vulnerable communities and infrastructure implements land-use planning and zoning regulations to minimize future risks
• Early warning systems develop advanced storm surge and flood prediction models improve communication networks for disaster preparedness (SMS alerts)
• Diversification of livelihoods promotes alternative income sources for fishing communities (ecotourism) develops sustainable tourism initiatives (whale watching) to reduce dependence on vulnerable resources

International Cooperation and Nature-Based Solutions

International cooperation for ocean challenges

• Global agreements and frameworks Paris Agreement on climate change United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Convention on Biological Diversity guide collective action
• Regional cooperation initiatives Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs) Large Marine Ecosystem (LME) programs address transboundary issues
• Knowledge sharing and capacity building fosters international scientific collaborations facilitates technology transfer between developed and developing nations
• Financial mechanisms Green Climate Fund Global Environment Facility (GEF) support climate action and environmental protection projects
• Policy harmonization aligns national policies with international standards develops common metrics for measuring progress ensures consistent global efforts

Nature-based solutions for climate resilience

• Mangrove restoration provides coastal protection against storms and erosion enhances carbon sequestration supports biodiversity and fisheries (nursery habitats)
• Coral reef rehabilitation improves coastal protection supports tourism and local economies maintains marine biodiversity (fish, invertebrates)
• Seagrass meadow conservation stabilizes sediments reduces erosion enhances water quality through nutrient cycling provides critical habitat for marine species (dugongs, sea turtles)
• Wetland restoration acts as a natural buffer against flooding filters pollutants improves water quality supports diverse ecosystems and wildlife (migratory birds)
• Oyster reef construction reduces wave energy shoreline erosion improves water quality through filtration provides habitat for various marine species (crabs, fish)