Of all the interconnected threats facing the planet the top two are the climate and biodiversity crises. Neither will be be solved if we ignore the ocean. To turn the tide in favour of humanity and a habitable planet we need to recognise and better value the fundamental role that the ocean plays in the earth system, and prioritize urgent action needed to heal and protect it at the 'Earthscape' level-the planetary scale at which processes to support life operate. The countries gathering at COP26 have unparalleled political capacity and leadership to make this happen. COP26 could be the turning point, where we not only see commitments to united action for the ocean but also plans to meet those commitments based on science-led solutions that address the interconnectivity between the ocean, climate, and biodiversity. Here we first summarise some of the key ways in which the ocean contributes to and has acted as the major buffer of climate change focussing on temperature although not forgetting its role in storing CO2. Noting in particular with 'high confidence' that the ocean has stored 91% of the excess heat from global warming with land, melting ice and the atmosphere only taking up approximately 5%, 3% and 1% respectively (IPCC, 2021). We also highlight the impact of the recent large release of heat from the ocean to the atmosphere during the 2015/16 El Niño. We then present six science-based policy actions that form a recovery-stimulus package for people, climate, nature, and the planet. Our proposals highlight what is needed to view, value, and treat the planet, including the ocean, for the benefit and future of all life.