Beneath the surface
Welcome to Marea – Blue Economy Digest from Faros Accelerator.
In this 2024 last newsletter, we’ll delve into the latest breakthroughs and efforts shaping the future of our oceans and climate. From the discovery of “dark oxygen” production on the ocean floor to ambitious international commitments for biodiversity protection, the stories highlight the critical balance between scientific progress and environmental stewardship.
Explore how nations are advancing marine conservation, the role of technology in tackling climate change, and opportunities to support innovative marine research.
Uncovering the ocean's hidden oxygen source
Deep beneath the ocean, a surprising new process has been discovered that challenges our understanding of oxygen production. Scientists have found that certain minerals in the ocean floor, known as polymetallic nodules, can generate oxygen through electrochemical reactions, even without the need for sunlight. This phenomenon, known as “dark oxygen,” occurs in the ocean’s deepest regions, far from the reach of light, and supports microbial life that thrives in these extreme conditions.
This discovery not only challenges traditional views of how oxygen is produced on Earth but also raises important environmental concerns. As demand for materials from the ocean floor grows, especially for clean energy technologies, the potential impact on these fragile ecosystems becomes clearer. Mining these nodules could disrupt marine life in ways we are only beginning to understand.
The “dark oxygen” phenomenon highlights the need to balance innovation with environmental responsibility. While deep-sea resources hold great promise for sustainable energy, we must carefully ensure that technological progress does not come at the expense of biodiversity.
Six nations pledge €130m to protect 30% of planet by 2030
At COP16, six European countries—Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, Norway, and the UK— pledged €130 million to the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF). This fund will drive efforts to meet the '30x30' target, protecting 30% of the planet by 2030. It prioritizes projects led by Indigenous Peoples and local communities, aiming to strengthen global biodiversity conservation. This investment marks a significant step in supporting the sustainable future of our planet’s ecosystems.
BLUE & GREEN
Portugal establishes Europe’s largest Marine Protected Area in the Azores
Portugal has unveiled the largest Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Europe, surrounding the Azores with a span of 287,000 square kilometers. This expansive network serves to protect a rich array of marine ecosystems and supports the global objective to safeguard 30% of oceans by 2030. Half of this newly established MPA will be fully shielded from extractive activities, offering a refuge for biodiversity. The other half will be designated as a "highly-protected" area, where limited extractive practices may occur. This milestone highlights the value of joint efforts between governments, researchers, and local communities for sustainable ocean management.
Nations face 2025 deadline to strengthen climate commitments
By February 2025, countries must update their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. These updates, essential for limiting global warming to 1.5°C, are crucial to tackling climate change. At COP29, nations like the UK, Brazil, and the UAE set ambitious emission reduction targets. However, current NDCs are not enough to meet climate goals, with the UNFCCC reporting a gap in emissions reductions. Carbon removal technologies are key to bridging this gap and reaching net-zero goals. Read more.
WHEN TECH MEETS OCEAN
Machine learning model tracks decline in ocean oxygen, highlighting climate change impact
Why ocean scientists measure chlorophyll data from satellites
OPPORTUNITIES
CALL FOR PROPOSALS: Grants for Brilliant Marine Research Ideas 2025
The Sea as a Good Cause initiative offers up to 5,000 EUR to PhD students or junior postdocs. These grants support innovative, "out-of-the-box" ideas that enhance ongoing marine research. Designed for unexpected yet valuable research opportunities, the program encourages creative exploration to advance marine science. Apply now and turn your brilliant idea into reality!
Thanks for reading!
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Stay tuned for future editions in the following months.
