Despite being heavily impacted by climate change, the ocean and ocean economy can also contribute to global efforts to limit warming. The potential of the ocean as a source of opportunities for mitigation is not limited to its natural ecosystems but extends to the ocean economy, including transport, energy, and food production.

This guide outlines the best ways countries can use ocean-based action to curb greenhouse gas emissions and better adapt to the impacts of climate change. The paper focuses on four ocean-based subsectors that have the greatest potential to curb emissions and deliver significant other benefits: marine conservation (coastal and marine ecosystem restoration and protection), oceanic and coastal fisheries, marine transport, and ocean-based renewable energy.