Deep sea research and management needs

Despite its immense ecological importance, the deep sea remains underrepresented in policy considerations and global conservation efforts. While the EU’s International Ocean Governance Agenda and Biodiversity Strategy emphasise marine biodiversity protection, there is an urgent need to translate these agendas into action, particularly concerning the deep sea. The EMB Future Science Brief No. 12 'Deep Sea Research and Management Needs' explores the complexity of the deep sea and its role in Ocean health today, highlights the critical ecosystem services and functions it provides, and underscores the risks to Ocean health in the face of climate change, direct human impacts, and future industries in the deep sea. This document provides policy, management, research and global capacity building recommendations to ensure a healthy Ocean and deep sea.