University report highlights necessity of understanding the world’s oceans
The report, created in collaboration with Lloyd’s Register and Qinetiq, focuses on how a greater understanding and appreciation of our oceans is essential for the wellbeing of the world’s population.
Experts from the University’s Southampton Marine and Maritime Institute (SMMI) report that since the start of the Industrial Revolution, there has been a 30 per cent increase in ocean acidity.
Meanwhile, some 16 per cent of global protein intake comes from fish and it is predicted that within the next 15 years, 50 per cent of the global population will live in coastal regions.
Experts from the SMMI have identified key technologies to address these issues.
Professor Ajit Shenoi, Director of the SMMI, said:
“We believe that working together, these technologies can be used to protect the ocean environment from excess exploitation and misuse as we gain a deeper understanding of the impact of human activity on the geology, meteorology and ecology of the ocean space.”
Professor Don Nutbeam, Vice-Chancellor, said:
“This interesting and thought-provoking report provides potential answers to some of the most-pressing global challenges facing society. At Southampton, our world-leading research and education will undoubtedly play a crucial role in developing the emerging technologies required in our future marine world.”