World Oceans Day came a long way from its creation in 1992 to the globally recognised celebration that it is today. The project’s aim is to draw attention on the importance of the world’s oceans, not only to humans but to the entire global ecosystem.
Covering approximately 72% of the surface of our planet, oceans face more and more challenges; from pollution and over fishing, to the effects of global warming. With only 5% of our oceans explored, the conservation of their ecosystems is paramount for our future. Despite their enormous importance, less than 1% of the world’s oceans are protected, as opposed to roughly 12% of land in national parks and reserves.
Not convinced by the rich biodiversity and the oceans’ importance in climate and weather regulation? Wondering what endangering our oceans means to humanity? Then watch this video.
Rising sea levels not only destroy picturesque scenery but demolish wetlands and threaten fresh water supplies through salt water intrusion, potentially leading to global drinking water shortages. Humanity’s evermore prevalent ocean pollution threatens the lives of ocean animals, causing interruptions in the food chain that will eventually affect ocean and land food resources.
If famine and the threat to the incredible biodiversity are not enough reasons for immediate action, then the oxygen we breathe in should be. With half of our oxygen originating from the oceans, humanity must take urgent actions to sustainable ocean management.
What can you do to decrease ocean pollution? With a few simple steps, we can all help:
2. Make sustainable seafood choices.
3. Never purchase products that exploit ocean life (tortoiseshell accessories, shark products etc.).
4. Reduce plastic usage.
5. Educate yourself and others on ocean life.
The growing global crisis of ocean exploitation highlights the importance of projects like World Oceans Day and the significance of public education and research in preserving one of our most precious life sources: our oceans.
About the Author
