World Ocean Day 2024: Catalysing the Blue to Green Revolution

The climate crisis remains one of our planet's most imminent threats, and for a planet that’s mostly covered by water, a healthy ocean is a prerequisite to achieving a healthy climate for a sustainable future. Therefore, the theme for World Ocean Day this year is “Catalysing Action for Our Ocean & Climate,” which encapsulates the urgent need to rally concrete efforts and initiatives to address the interconnected challenges facing our oceans and climate.

Importance of the Ocean in the Fight Against Climate Change

The Earth's surface is primarily covered by water, encompassing approximately 71% of its total area. Oceans play a crucial role in regulating the planet's temperature, forming a vital part of the water cycle, and supporting greater biodiversity compared to land ecosystems. According to the UN, the ocean generates 50% of the oxygen we need, absorbs 25% of all anthropogenic (human-caused) carbon dioxide emissions and captures 90% of the excess heat generated by these emissions. The ocean is not just ‘the lungs of the planet’ but it is central to reducing global greenhouse gas emissions and stabilising the Earth’s climate.

However, as we approach critical tipping points within the Earth's planetary boundaries, there are growing concerns about the sustainability of this vital system. This results in a pertinent need to shift from the traditional "ocean economy" to the "blue economy" for a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient ocean management.

Green Revolution: From the Ocean Economy to the Blue Economy

The ocean economy, which comprises ocean‑based industries such as shipping, fishing, offshore wind, and marine biotechnology, is a major contributor to the global economy, estimated to reach over US$3 trillion by 2030, providing essential resources such as food and employment for hundreds of millions of people worldwide.

Nevertheless, the ocean economy, as traditionally practised, often leads to overexploitation of marine resources, habitat degradation, and pollution. Shifting to a blue economy emphasises the sustainable use of ocean resources, promoting conservation and responsible management practices to ensure the long-term health and productivity of marine ecosystems. It's about harnessing the potential of our oceans in a way that balances economic development with environmental sustainability.

At Cyan Renewables, we recognise that the blue economy is not just a vision; it's a pathway towards responsible stewardship of our marine ecosystems. This is why every investment decision we make is grounded by our ability to harness the potential of the oceans in a way that mitigates the effects of climate change while enhancing climate resilience.

Supporting Offshore Renewables

By harnessing the power of wind, waves, and tides, offshore renewable energy projects contribute to decarbonising our energy systems while minimising the impact on marine ecosystems. Wind power could cover more than one-third of global power needs, becoming the world’s foremost energy source.

As a dedicated offshore wind vessel owner, Cyan Renewables is gearing up to become the partner of choice for global offshore wind farm developers and vessel operators, supporting the advancement of the offshore wind sector as the world moves towards a greener future built on sustainable renewable energy.

Investing in Green Marine Technologies

From emission-reducing technologies that enhance fuel efficiency for ships to innovative ocean monitoring systems and extended vessel charters, Cyan Renewables is at the forefront of developing and deploying green technologies that facilitate the sustainability of maritime operations.

Protecting the Ocean and Seabed

Sentinel Marine, a subsidiary under Cyan Renewables, also recognises the importance of safeguarding our oceans and protecting marine life. Beyond stringent emission controls, adopting advanced technologies, and embracing alternative fuels to minimise carbon footprint, the company plays a vital role in protecting the ocean and seabed by offering valuable support to the growing field of fishery inspection. By collaborating closely with regulatory bodies and fisheries authorities, we help to preserve marine ecosystems and promote sustainable fisheries management.

Sentinel Marine's specialisation in Emergency Response and Rescue Vessels (ERRVs) also helps to expedite offshore operations for safety and environmental protection, which include oil spill recovery, border control, as well as search and rescue. These ERRVs are equipped with specialised equipment to ensure rapid response in the event of incidents or accidents while minimising environmental impact.

Through its commitment to responsible maritime operations and environmental stewardship, Sentinel Marine is making a positive impact on ocean protection and setting a benchmark for responsible maritime operations.

Championing Marine Conservation

In March, Cyan Renewables expressed keen interest in acquiring Australian offshore support vessel specialist, MMA Offshore. One of the key pulling factors is its extensive subsea solutions that contribute to coastal erosion prevention, the installation of engineered reefs and marine habitat enhancement. MMA Offshore’s involvement with preserving marine habitats, safeguarding biodiversity, and restoring degraded ecosystems deeply resonates with Cyan Renewables' commitment to developing green solutions for the blue economy, which is paramount for the health and resilience of our oceans.

Cyan Renewables actively supports marine conservation efforts and consciously chooses to partner with organisations dedicated to habitat restoration and sustainable management practices to foster a healthier and more sustainable future for our oceans and planet.

Cyan Renewables: Catalyst of the Blue to Green Revolution

The transition to a net-zero future to safeguard the health of our planet requires a concerted focus on the oceans. After all, a healthy future for our planet hinges upon the sustainability of our oceans. Without prioritising actions that safeguard the sustainability of our oceans, meeting sustainability goals and effectively combating climate change will remain formidable challenges.

In supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 on “Life Below Water”, which calls for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources, Cyan Renewables strives to be the catalyst in facilitating the shift from the ocean economy to the blue economy, and towards a greener future for our planet and us all.

Enquiries: corporatecomms@cyanrenewables.com

(Source: Cyan Renewables | LinkedIn Post | All News)