The oceans under pressure: Why their condition affects us all

Our changing ocean: This is shown in the new Copernicus Ocean State Report 9.

The oceans of our planet are changing faster than ever before – and the new Copernicus Ocean State Report 9 (OSR9) provides the figures and facts that should make us sit up and take notice. The report shows how climate change, species loss, and pollution are putting the world's oceans under pressure.

Heat, records and extreme events

• The OSR9 shows that global sea temperatures reached new records in spring 2024. Particularly in the Mediterranean and tropical regions, water temperatures are rising faster than ever before ( Copernicus Marine Service, 2025 ).

• Marine heatwaves (periods of unusually high water temperatures) are increasing worldwide. Coral reefs, mussel beds, and fish stocks, which depend on stable temperatures, are particularly affected ( OSR9, 2025 ).

Sea level, ice loss and threatened coastlines

• Since 1901, the global sea level has risen by around 23 centimeters – and the trend is increasing ( EU Copernicus, 2025 ).

• Glacier and ice melt increase the danger for coastal regions, threatening cities, villages and coastal ecosystems.

• The shifting of marine habitats: Many species are migrating poleward, while biodiversity hotspots are shrinking ( Mercator Ocean, 2025 ).

Consequences for people and nature

• Fishing and aquaculture are suffering from changing temperatures and heat waves. Fish stocks are shifting, harvests are declining, and coastal economies are under pressure.

• Biodiversity: Corals, shellfish, and many other species are struggling to survive. New invasive species are spreading.

• Coastal communities must prepare for higher flood risks – protective measures are becoming more important ( OSR9, 2025 ).

Why observing and informing are important now

The OSR9 makes it clear: Ocean changes are happening now. Heat, sea-level rise, and shifts in ecosystems are not future scenarios – they are currently measurable.

• Those who are informed about current developments can better assess risks – be it for coastal planning, fisheries, logistics or general research.

• Early information helps to identify trends, adjust long-term plans and prepare for possible changes.

• The report provides a reliable data basis for this: from satellite data to model calculations to local measurements.

Conclusion

Our oceans are in the midst of a crisis – heat, species loss, rising sea levels. The Copernicus Ocean State Report 9 shows that these changes are happening now and that we can gain a better understanding through observation, analysis, and research.

For companies that work with fish and seafood products worldwide, these developments are not just abstract future scenarios, but part of a changing market environment. KANZOW also closely monitors current developments in the oceans, as they can influence availability, regions of origin and framework conditions in international trade. Against this backdrop, stable partnerships, clear quality criteria and a conscious approach to information on origin are becoming increasingly important. For customers, this means one thing above all: KANZOW is a partner that assesses changes in the market, observes developments and incorporates these perspectives into its work.

Sources for this article:

1. Copernicus Marine Service – OSR9 Release

2. Copernicus OSR9 Online Report

3. EU Copernicus Press Release

4. Mercator Ocean – Copernicus Marine OSR9

5. OSR9 Mediterranean Chapter