A Sustainable Ocean Economy for 2050: Approximating Its Benefits and Costs

Abstract

The ocean and its resources provide key ecosystem services and benefits that are crucial for human well-being and the prosperity of the global economy, but these services are at risk. The ocean’s wide range of ecosystem services (including food, energy, recreational/ cultural services and trading/transport routes) is vital for the well-being of society. However, climate change, overfishing, pollution and a loss of biodiversity and coastal ecosystems are eroding the ability of the ocean to sustain livelihoods and prosperity.