The Finite Ocean: Atlas
Examine humankind's impact on the global ocean with these interactive thematic maps
This collection of interactive maps accompanies The Finite Ocean , the fifth chapter in an ongoing series of stories examining humankind's impact on the planet. Click the link below to read the full story.
Many of the layers in these maps are available in ArcGIS Online, and can be added to new or existing maps and scenes. Select View layer in ArcGIS Online in the corresponding narrative panel below to learn more about each dataset. Note that some of the layers have been restyled for these maps, and may look slightly different in ArcGIS Online.
Ocean currents and sea surface temperature
Ocean currents play an important role in regulating the planet's climate. Warm water temperatures near the equator tend to increase the currents' speed and energy, while cooler temperatures near the poles produce slower currents.
Ocean currents data
Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), via Esri
Sea surface temperature data
Source: NOAA, via Esri
Cumulative human impact on marine ecosystems
The global ocean, once perceived by humans as an inexhaustible and adaptable resource, is now exhibiting indicators of irreversible harm.
This map attempts to quantify humankind's impact on the ocean, with lighter areas corresponding to greater human impact.
Source: National Center for Ecological Analysis & Synthesis (NCEAS), via World Wildlife Foundation (WWF)
Sea surface temperature and coral reef bleaching alerts
Coral reefs play an indispensable role in maintaining the overall health of marine ecosystems. They support a diverse array of species and provide essential breeding and feeding grounds. Additionally, they act as natural barriers, protecting coastlines from erosion and mitigating the impact of storms.
But coral reefs are extremely vulnerable to rising ocean temperatures. This map highlights sea surface temperature and the planet's major coral reef systems, along with their real-time bleaching risks.
Source: NOAA, via Esri
Global shipping routes
The ocean acts as a a vital conduit for global trade. However, maritime shipping contributes to pollution, habitat disruption, and the introduction of invasive species.
Source: World Bank, via Esri
Offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico
The Gulf of Mexico yields substantial energy resources that are essential to the American economy. Yet, the practice of offshore drilling bears inherent risks and consequences. Oil and gas spills — such as the catastrophic — habitat destruction, and the release of pollutants pose grave threats to marine life and coastal communities. This map shows active drilling platforms; many more have been decommissioned.
Offshore drilling platforms data
Source: Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), via Esri
Deepwater Horizon contamination extent data
Source: Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observation System (GCOOS)
Global fishing intensity
Global fisheries are a crucial source of sustenance, livelihood, and economic activity for millions of people worldwide. However, overfishing threatens marine biodiversity, disrupts ecosystems, and imperils the long-term viability of these essential fisheries.
Source: Global Fishing Watch (GFW), via Esri
Coastal development
Human settlements are overwhelmingly concentrated in coastal areas. Intensive coastal development strains available resources and frequently endangers littoral ecosystems.
This map shows urban agglomerations scaled by population, with coastal cities (within 100 kilometers of the shore) highlighted in green.
Along with distance from shore, coastal elevation can play a factor for people living in low-lying areas. Click the links below to see estimates of populations who may be at-risk due to sea level rise.
Source: United Nations Department of Social and Economic Affairs (UNDESA)
Marine managed areas
Marine managed areas (MMAs) and marine protected areas (MPAs) safeguard ocean biodiversity by establishing zones where certain human activities are restricted. These areas take various forms, from no-take zones to wildlife sanctuaries, but most are designed to preserve marine life, restore habitats, and maintain the delicate balance of the underwater world.
Here, highly protected areas are colored cyan, while moderately protected areas appear as hollow polygons.
Source: ProtectedSeas, via Esri