The vast ocean is divided into five "basins" -Arctic, Atlantic, Indian, Pacific, and
Southern.2 Collectively, it covers about 71% of our world and is instrumental in the processes
that keep us alive.
Firstly, whilst the rainforests may be referred to as "the lungs of the planet", scientists
say it's actually the ocean that provides 50-80% of the oxygen3we breathe. Then, through a
"conveyor belt" 4 action, it helps regulate Earth's climate by transporting heat away from
the equator, towards the poles to cool.
But the ocean also proves itself essential in the fight against climate change too. It absorbs
50 times more carbon dioxide5 than our atmosphere – or rather, it’s not the ocean itself…
but what lives in it.
Many forms of aquatic life naturally absorb and hold carbon,6 which is taken down to the seabed
and kept there when they die. From microscopic phytoplankton to gigantic whales, life of all
shapes and sizes play a part in feeding these "carbon sinks" (areas that absorb more carbon
dioxide than they release).7
And perhaps one of the most incredible forms is the humble seagrass.