John Kerry warns of ocean ‘dead zones’ from pollution and acidification

US Secretary of State John Kerry has warned of growing “dead zones” in the world’s oceans, calling for greater global efforts to protect marine life.

In his second major environmental speech this month, he said pollution, over-fishing and acidification linked to greenhouse gas emissions were stripping the high seas of life.

Kerry hinted the US could support an increase in the world’s marine reserves, urging countries to work together at the United Nations to address what he called one of the most “complex global challenges” facing the planet.

Speaking at an oceans’ conference hosted by the Economist and National Geographic in California he said: “If we want to slow down the rate of acidification on our oceans, protect our coral reefs, and save species from extinction, we have to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions and pursue cleaner sources of energy. It’s as simple as that.”

“This doesn’t know borders. It’s trans-boundary. And every country on earth has to do all it can to reduce emissions not just for the future of marine life but, frankly, for the future of all life.” (…)

Ed King, RTCC, 260February 2014. Article.

US Secretary of State follows up comments on climate action with call for more marine protection zones – See more at: http://www.rtcc.org/2014/02/26/john-kerry-warns-of-ocean-dead-zones-from-pollution-and-acidification/#sthash.GsH5k1gk.dpuf

Ocean Acidification