Environmental Sustainable Development Goals II

What is the purpose of SDG 14 and what progress has been made towards it?

SDG 14, "Life Below Water," aims to conserve and sustainably use oceans, seas, and marine resources. It's crucial for human survival, climate regulation, and hosting diverse marine life. Targets include reducing marine pollution, protecting ecosystems, and regulating harvesting by specified dates. 

Progress has been mixed. Marine pollution remains high, with 17 million metric tons of plastic entering oceans in 2021. Ocean acidification, affecting climate moderation and energy storage, is increasing. Sustainable fishing measures haven't been adequately implemented, with 35.4% of global stocks overfished in 2019. A notable initiative for SDG 14 is the Australian Marine Debris Initiative, which has removed over 1,700 tonnes of debris from the ocean.

What is the purpose of SDG 15 and what progress has been made towards it?

SDG 15, "Life on Land," aims to protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, manage forests sustainably, combat desertification, and halt biodiversity loss. Important targets include conserving and restoring ecosystems, ending deforestation, and eliminating poaching. 

Unfortunately, progress has been limited. Globally, 10 million hectares of forest are destroyed annually, mainly due to agricultural expansion, with 2020's target unmet. Biodiversity is also under threat, as the Red List Index shows increased risk of species extinction. However, progress has been made in promoting access to genetic resources, with the Nagoya Protocol ratified by 132 countries and the EU. A notable initiative includes sustainable farming training by the World Wildlife Fund in Paraguay.