The ocean is not only a source of beauty and biodiversity but also a vital support system for human life. More than three billion people worldwide rely on the ocean as their primary source of protein. Fish, shellfish, and seaweed play a critical role in global food security.
Beyond food, the ocean contains vast natural resources. Offshore oil and gas reserves have long been exploited to meet global energy demands. The ocean floor also holds valuable minerals such as cobalt, nickel, and manganese, which are essential for modern technologies, including electric vehicle batteries.
Seaweed is one of the fastest-growing marine resources. It is easy to cultivate and can be used for food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and even biofuels. Indonesia is among the world’s largest producers of seaweed, highlighting the economic importance of marine resources.
The ocean also has enormous potential as a source of renewable energy. Wave energy, tidal power, and ocean thermal energy are increasingly being explored as sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. If developed responsibly, these energy sources could significantly reduce carbon emissions.
In the field of medicine, the ocean offers promising opportunities for new treatments. Many chemical compounds derived from marine organisms have shown antibacterial, antiviral, and anticancer properties. Marine biotechnology continues to expand, offering hope for major medical breakthroughs in the future.
However, the use of ocean resources must be managed sustainably. Overexploitation can damage ecosystems and threaten the livelihoods of millions of people. These facts emphasize that humanity’s future is closely tied to our ability to protect and responsibly manage the world’s oceans.
