The increasing presence of microplastics in the bodies of birds poses a global challenge. By Syed Shariq Hussein

Against a backdrop of global uncertainty and questions about whether multilateral processes can still deliver, the countries represented at the latest UN Ocean Conference were largely united on the need for a more ambitious response to the challenges facing our ocean. Here is what needs to happen now. By John F Kerry

Pursuing a sustainable blue economy requires striking a delicate balance between using the ocean’s resources and respecting its natural limits, especially amid the escalating climate crisis. By Ulrike Decoene

Addressing the global crisis of maritime plastic pollution will require mobilising investment and support to reduce the production of single-use plastics, increasing the lifespan of plastic objects and promoting reuse and reparability. By Romain Troublé