TEHRAN – Maryam Qaemi, a faculty member of the Iranian National Institute of Oceanography and Atmospheric Sciences, has been appointed as the first representative of the country in the Integrated Marine Biosphere Research global project (IMBeR).

IMBeR is a large global research project which focuses on ocean sustainability in the context of global change.  Understanding past, present, and future changes to the ocean, and exploring ways to achieve a sustainable ocean for the benefit of society are among the main objectives of the research.

It aims to quantify and compare historic and present structure and functioning of linked ocean and human systems to predict and project changes including developing scenarios and options for securing or transitioning towards ocean sustainability.

Promoting integrated marine research and enhancing capabilities for the development and implementation of ocean sustainability strategies within natural and social sciences, as well as sharing relevant information and knowledge needed by society to secure sustainable and healthy oceans are listed as the most important missions of the global project.

The main responsibility of the representatives focuses on making necessary arrangements for boosting international contribution and cooperation, in line with the goals of the project, IRNA quoted Qaemi as saying.

IMBeR supports collaborative, disciplinary, interdisciplinary, transdisciplinary, and integrated research that addresses key ocean science issues generated by or impacting society. 

Such research is required to provide evidence-based knowledge and guidance, along with options for policy-makers, managers, and marine-related communities, to help achieve sustainability in the marine realm under global change.

Preserving oceans

The ocean covers over 70 percent of the planet. It is the life source, supporting humanity’s sustenance and that of every other organism on earth.

The ocean produces at least 50 percent of the planet’s oxygen. It is home to most of Earth’s biodiversity and is the main source of protein for more than a billion people around the world. Not to mention, the ocean is key to our economy with an estimated 40 million people being employed by ocean-based industries by 2030.

Even with all its benefits, the ocean is now in need of support.

With 90 percent of big fish populations depleted, and 50 percent of coral reefs destroyed, humans are taking more from the ocean than can be replenished.

It is essential to work together to create a new balance with the ocean that no longer depletes its bounty but instead restores its vibrancy and brings it new life.

MT/MG