Scientists have found that the true economic cost of climate change is far higher than previously estimated when damage to the world’s oceans is fully taken into account. New research shows that including ocean-related impacts—such as warming seas, acidification, coral reef loss, declining fisheries, and rising sea levels—nearly doubles the estimated global economic losses from climate change.
Traditionally, climate cost models have focused mainly on land-based damages, including impacts on agriculture, infrastructure, and human health. However, oceans play a central role in regulating the planet’s climate and supporting livelihoods, particularly for coastal and island communities. The study highlights that ocean warming disrupts marine ecosystems, reduces fish stocks, and threatens food security for millions of people.
Coral reef degradation alone could lead to billions of dollars in losses due to declining tourism revenues, collapsing fisheries, and reduced natural protection from storms and coastal erosion. Rising sea levels further increase costs by damaging ports, coastal cities, and critical infrastructure.
Researchers warn that ocean damage also weakens the sea’s ability to absorb heat and carbon dioxide, accelerating global warming and amplifying future economic risks. The findings suggest current climate policies significantly underestimate the urgency of cutting emissions and protecting marine ecosystems to avoid far greater losses ahead – News as reported
