Highlights
The increasing carbon dioxide emissions from human activities are being absorbed by the oceans, leading to a decrease in seawater pH levels worldwide. South-East Asia is particularly vulnerable to this problem, as the projected trend of ocean acidification severely threatens marine life in the region, as well as marine industry productivity and food safety. Urgent action must be taken by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Secretariat and its Member States to sustain coastal populations’ livelihoods and economic prosperity.
Recommendations
Improve marine protected areas (MPAs) by applying science-based design and grass-roots community participation.
Establish a regional task force and collaborative funding.
Increase public awareness and implement marine educational programmes through curriculum integration.
