Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
Ocean warming is a core component of climate change, directly impacting environment, ecology, disaster management (coastal hazards), livelihoods (fisheries), and international relations (e.g., small island developing states). Understanding its causes, consequences, and mitigation strategies is crucial for UPSC aspirants.
Ocean warming refers to the long-term increase in the heat content of the oceans, primarily driven by the absorption of excess heat from anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. This phenomenon is a critical indicator of global climate change and has profound implications for marine ecosystems and global climate patterns.