Oceans cover 71% of the Earth’s surface, contain 97% of the Earth’s water, and make up 99% of the living space on Earth. The oceans are grappling with ocean problems of acidification due to human activity and plastic waste. SDG 14 aims to promote use of our ocean resources sustainably and aims to protect the marine and coastal ecosystems from pollution and ocean acidification.

Tamil Nadu is undertaking serious efforts to protect and improve its marine and coastal ecosystems including coral reefs, mangroves, estuaries, tidal flats, islands, and sandy beaches. With a 1,076 kms long coastline, comprising of vulnerable biosphere reserves and habitats, and covering 13 coastal districts inhabiting a large population, Tamil Nadu has accorded high priority to the preservation and restoration of its marine and coastal ecosystems in its State Environment Policy 2017.