30 September 2025, Toulouse – Every part of the ocean is now affected by the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, according to the ninth edition of the Copernicus Ocean State Report, published annually by the Copernicus Marine Service. The report documents widespread changes across the ocean, impacting ecosystems, economies, food production, and human livelihoods.
Key findings from this year’s report include:
Ocean warming accelerates: The ocean absorbs 90% of excess heat from human-induced greenhouse gas emissions. Global sea surface temperatures reached a record 21°C in spring 2024, and marine heatwaves affected large parts of the ocean for more than 300 days in some regions.
Marine ecosystems under pressure: Ocean acidification, warming, and invasive species threaten biodiversity hotspots. In summer 2023, the longest-ever Mediterranean marine heatwave caused invasive Atlantic Blue Crabs to decimate clam populations in Italy’s Po Delta.
Sea level rise and ice loss: Global sea levels rose 228 mm between 1901–2024, threatening coastal populations and UNESCO heritage sites. Arctic and Antarctic sea ice continued to decline, reaching multi-year record lows.
Expanded data integration: For the first time, Chapter 1 also incorporates economic data, plastic emissions, fisheries and aquaculture activities, as well as UNESCO, Eurostat, and EMODnet datasets, alongside satellite, in-situ, and model data, providing a holistic view of ocean pressures.
“The Ninth Copernicus Ocean State Report confirms that we are dangerously approaching planetary boundaries: every part of the ocean is now affected by the triple planetary crisis. In such a context, we need reliable science and operational tools more than ever. The Copernicus Marine Service – which Mercator Ocean has been implementing on behalf of the European commission for nearly a decade – provides this unique foundation.
Its annual report turns cutting-edge science into actionable knowledge, helping Europe and the world strengthen resilience, safeguard security, and protect the ocean for future generations.” said Pierre Bahurel, Director General of Mercator Ocean International.
The report brings together the expertise of over 70 scientists and is a reference for policymakers, the scientific community, and the public. The Copernicus Marine Service is implemented by Mercator Ocean International on behalf of the European Commission.
> Read the full press release on the Copernicus Marine Press Center