World Ocean Day 2026 – Global Climate Crisis impacts on the Mediterranean Sea

On the occasion of the World Ocean Day, June 8, 2026 – Strong Marine Protected Areas for Our Blue Planet, the Center of Excellence in Sustainability, organized an inspiring speech on the Global Climate Crisis and the Mediterranean Marine System: Current status & Future challenges, by Dr. Velaoras, physical oceanographer, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), Institute of Oceanography.

In his speech Dr. Velaoras, explored how the global climate crisis is reshaping ocean systems, affecting marine biodiversity, coastal communities, weather patterns, and the delicate balance of the Mediterranean ecosystem. He emphasized on the observed changes and the predicted slowdown of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) that will affect the world ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.

Through scientific insight and real-world observations, the presentation highlighted the current state of the Mediterranean Sea, the impacts already being recorded, and the major environmental challenges expected in the coming decades.

The discussion that followed also emphasized the importance of research, innovation, and collective action in protecting one of the world’s most unique and vulnerable marine regions for future generations.