WWF and EDF involved in platform to prevent climate-related ocean conflicts

The World Wildlife Fund and the Environmental Defense Fund (both Green Marine supporters) have collaborated with other partners to unveil a new platform to address the mounting threats to oceans as a result of climate change affecting marine resources and communities.

The Ocean Futures platform utilizes a comprehensive approach, drawing on data from climate modeling, socioeconomics and global fisheries to forecast potential conflicts in 20 regions by 2030. By integrating information on fish stock movements under climate change scenarios with data on marine environments, socioeconomic factors, and historical conflicts regarding fisheries, the platform identifies regions worldwide likely to face increased conflicts involving fisheries in the future.

Notable hotspots include Ecuador, which is facing reduced fish populations and militarized conflicts, and the Western Central Pacific Islands, where diminishing fish stocks and high dependency on seafood are exacerbating tensions. A rapidly warming Arctic also presents complex geopolitical challenges and risks for Indigenous populations.

The groundbreaking platform represents a crucial step towards addressing ocean conflicts and fostering resilience, with ongoing efforts to expand data, enhance modeling, and drive policy change in collaboration with partners.