What role do the oceans play in regulating the climate and supporting life on Earth?

The world’s oceans cover most of the Earth’s surface and represent about 95% of the planet’s biosphere. They contribute to climate regulation by absorbing over a quarter of human-caused carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and around 90% of excess heat. They are also an important source of animal protein for billions of people and of associated livelihoods in what is known as the blue economy, as well as providing a crucial wildlife habitat, with ocean biodiversity being much higher than that found on land.