What is Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water, and why does it matter?

Globally, our oceans are facing unprecedented challenges from pollution, overfishing, climate change, and unsustainable aquaculture practices. As critical ecosystems, oceans not only regulate the planet's climate but also sustain biodiversity and provide livelihoods for millions in coastal communities and beyond. Protecting and preserving marine environments is not just an environmental issue - it’s essential for global economic stability and human well-being. Sustainable Development Goal 14, Life Below Water, is key to preserving these ecosystems, reducing pollution, addressing ocean acidification, and raising awareness of the oceans' crucial role in sustaining life on Earth.

For businesses, particularly those in industries like shipping, fisheries, and tourism, Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water (SDG 14) is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of their operations, supply chains, and resources. By aligning their strategies with this goal and adopting ocean-friendly practices, companies can not only contribute to healthier oceans but also enhance their brand reputation and lead in the shift toward more sustainable, environmentally-conscious business models.

Business actions to support SDG 14

To support SDG 14, businesses can take several impactful actions to safeguard ocean ecosystems and promote sustainability. These can include:

• Reducing plastic waste: Implementing zero-waste or plastic-free policies and transitioning to biodegradable or reusable packaging can significantly cut down on ocean pollution.
• Supporting sustainable fishing practices: Opting for Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)-certified seafood and ensuring transparency in supply chains helps promote ethical and sustainable fishing practices.
• Minimising carbon emissions: Shifting to renewable energy sources and adopting energy-efficient shipping and transportation methods can help reduce carbon footprints and mitigate the effects of ocean acidification.
• Investing in marine conservation: Financially supporting marine conservation and restoration projects, such as coral reef restoration initiatives, can provide crucial backing for preserving and revitalising marine ecosystems.
• Enhancing supply chain sustainability: Ensuring that suppliers adhere to high environmental standards can reduce the overall environmental impact of products or services.

Leading by example

Many businesses are setting the standard with their ocean-friendly initiatives. For instance, Unilever is a notable leader in this area, committed to reducing their plastic footprint with their mantra: ‘Less Plastic, Better Plastic, No Plastic.’ Their approach emphasises minimising plastic use, improving the quality and recyclability of the plastics they do use, and ultimately aiming for a complete elimination of plastic where possible, thus reducing plastic pollution both in the oceans and on land. Similarly, Patagonia has made significant strides towards eliminating virgin materials from its products. Currently, 98% of their product line is made from recycled materials, which not only reduces waste but also lowers carbon emissions, further supporting ocean and environmental conservation.

Smaller businesses are making impactful contributions as well. For instance, Finisterre, a UK-based outdoor clothing brand, has introduced "Leave No Trace" packaging. Made with 70% less paper and fully biodegradable and water-soluble materials, their packaging is designed to be "ocean safe". Another notable example is Toast Brewing, a London-based brewery that creates zero-waste beer by repurposing surplus bread and using recycled glass for bottling, helping to reduce both waste and carbon emissions.

Where to start

Starting sustainability initiatives can feel overwhelming, so here are four actionable steps to kickstart your ocean-friendly efforts and support Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water:

• Conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): Begin by assessing where your activities have the greatest environmental impact. This will help identify the key areas that need attention.
• Set clear, measurable targets: Based on your assessment, establish specific, measurable goals and prioritise the most critical areas for action.
• Research and support conservation efforts: Look for conservation projects or initiatives that align with your goals and consider partnering with or financially supporting these efforts to make a tangible impact.
• Communicate with stakeholders: Share your ocean-friendly practices and plans with stakeholders to build awareness and support for your sustainability initiatives.

For more information about SDG 14 take a look at the UN Global Compact website or feel free to reach out to our sustainability consultants at [email protected] if you need guidance on integrating ocean-friendly sustainability practices into your business strategies.