The OceansThe 4. 4 billion year history of the oceans and their role in Earth's climate system. It has often been said that we know more about the moon than we do about our own oceans. In fact, we know a great deal more about the oceans than many people realise. Scientists know that our actions today are shaping the oceans and climate of tomorrow and that if we continue to act recklessly, the consequences will be dire. Eelco Rohling traces the 4. 4 billion year