Oceans cover 70% of the Earth’s surface and support an extraordinarily diverse world. Only a fraction of it has been discovered so far and much of ocean life remains a mystery which IUCN experts are striving to unveil.
It is estimated that more than 1 million species live on coral reefs alone, and as many as 10 million in the deep seas.
The threats facing the marine environment are numerous and complex yet less than 2% of the oceans are protected.
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About marine and polar conservation
What's new?
Blue Carbon discussed at Rio+20 planning session
In preparation for the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) in Brazil in June this year, coastal carbon experts came together at a side event for the conference to discuss the role of Blue Carbon in sustainable development. …
10 May 2012 | Article
SOS - Save Our Species: New call for proposals open!
The second SOS Call for Proposals has just opened. Non-governmental organisations (including IUCN members), community groups, and other civil society organisations are welcome to apply for an SOS grant for one of the following Strategic Directions: …
08 May 2012 | News story
IUCN Congress Programme now live
As the World Conservation Congress draws closer, you can now view what’s on and when. Regularly updated, the Online Programme is a handy companion to organize your schedule in Jeju and make the most out of your experience. …
03 May 2012 | News story
