Known for its vast waters and beaches, the Philippines is one of
the world’s richest countries in marine biodiversity and has been
deemed an ideal utopia for divers and environmentalists. However,
due to pollution, overfishing, and climate change, the country’s
marine ecosystem is at risk of being destroyed, posing a threat
not just to the country’s resources but also to the environment.
The Philippines’ latest Ocean Health Index (OCI) ranks 214 out of
220 nations with an overall score of 58 over 100, which is below
the global average of 73, giving them a grim reminder of the
deteriorating health of their marine ecosystem.
The OHI index measures how well a nation’s marine systems can
benefit and provide service to its citizens sustainably. The
overall score is measured through 10 “goal” scores which are Food
provision, Artisanal fishing opportunities, Natural products,
Carbon storage, Coastal protection, Livelihood and economies,
Tourism and recreation, Senso of place, clean waters, and
Biodiversity.
Even though the Philippines scored a below-average score, they
showed their strengths in some goal scores, which are Coastal
Protection and Artisanal Fishing Opportunities. The one aspect
they need to improve on is their weak sustainable tourism
performance. OHI stated that because of the Philippines'
unattractive conditions, tourism is declining. In response, the
Department of Tourism (DOT) vowed to focus on this problem and
continue pursuing a sustainable future in Philippine tourism.
SDG 14 goals to hold and sustainably use oceans and marine
resources by marine pollution, ocean acidification, and
overfishing. The oceans are key for controlling the
climate, providing food and oxygen, and supporting
livelihoods, but they are threatened by pollution,
warming, and acidification, which negatively impact marine
ecosystems and biodiversity. These changes can greatly
affect biodiversity. It will take immediate international
action to stop the harm and save marine life for
generations.
In May 2022, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
presented how nuclear science and technology can
contribute to tackling plastic pollution and reducing
atmospheric carbon dioxide at the UN Ocean Conference in
Lisbon, Portugal. The IAEA showcased its efforts in
applying nuclear techniques to monitor plastic movement in
the ocean and create new materials capable for removing
microplastics from water. Additionally, the agency
discussed its research into utilizing nuclear energy for
carbon capture and storage technologies, which can either
store C02 underground or transform it into valuable
products.
Researchers have created a sustainable aquaculture system
to cultivate “Naked Clams”, a fast-growing, nutritious
bivalve that can grow up to 30 cm within six months by
digging into waste wood. These clams are high in Vitamin
B12 and can be enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, making
them a promising low-impact alternative protein source. In
the Spring of 2022, UN Women visited Seychelles to
emphasize the vital role women play in marine conservation
and sustainable ocean practices. The initiative
underscored the importance of empowering women in the
fisheries industry, where they frequently encounter
obstacles like low wages and restricted decision-making
authority. By boosting women’s representation and access
to resources, UN Women aims to strengthen their impact on
sustainable ocean management.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime group has
launched “Oplan Dagit”, an initiative aimed at fighting
illegal fishing in the country’s waters. This operation
will deploy additional personnel and resources to expose
and understand vessels engaged in unlawful fishing
practices in particular areas.
SDG 14 Life below water provides life support by
controlling the climate, offering food, and supporting the
lives of over 3 billion people. Although pollution, such
as plastic waste and carbon emissions, threaten marine
life and ocean health, it helps individuals to take simple
yet impactful steps to protect the oceans, like reducing
plastic use and participating in beach cleanups.
