May 2011: The May 2011 “Monthly Focus” publication from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) highlights challenges to oceans and seas conservation, including the threats posed by climate change, such as ocean acidification, coral bleaching and its impact on coral reefs, as well as impacts on the tourism and fishing industries and the coastal communities who rely on them.

However, the issue notes, oceans can mitigate the effects of climate change, as mangroves, wetlands, seagrasses and salt marshes trap and store “huge amounts” of carbon. It also highlights marine-based renewable energy as a promising tool to reduce carbon emissions, noting that proactive – rather than reactive – planning is needed to ensure that renewable energy infrastructure is “right from technical, economic as well as socially and environmentally sustainable standpoints.”

The issue also underlines the role of biomimicry and its impact in medicine, defence and building construction, and its potential in the search for sustainable energy, noting that oceans provide both inspiration and resources. [Publication: IUCN Monthly Focus: Ocean Commotion]