World’s seas heated by a record 23 zettajoules last year

Last year, the world's oceans absorbed a record 23 zettajoules of thermal energy—about 40 times total human energy use—according to the Copernicus ocean state report. Global sea levels rose by 4.2mm annually between 2012 and 2025, while acidity increased by 17% over 40 years. Mercator Ocean International director general Pierre Bahurel noted that warming, rising seas, and ecosystem degradation signal significant long-term change.