Our oceans play an incredibly important role in supporting life on our planet. Oceans Day, also referred to as World Oceans Day, takes place on June 8th each year and helps create awareness of the issues that are threatening our oceans as well as the habitats within them.
What is World Oceans Day? The purpose of Oceans Day is to create awareness regarding the impact of our actions on the ocean and unite the world’s population for the sustainable management of the world’s oceans. Celebrate World Ocean Day by learning a few important facts about how vital our oceans are to our well-being.
Facts to Share on World Oceans Day
Get involved on United Nations World Oceans Day by sharing these facts and reasons to create worldwide awareness about threats to our oceans:
1. The ocean covers over 70% of our planet
It’s our life source, supporting our existence and that of every other organism on earth.
2. The majority of the oxygen production on Earth comes from the ocean
Scientists estimate that 50% to 80% of the oxygen production on Earth comes from the ocean. Most of this production is from oceanic plankton — drifting plants, algae, and some forms of bacteria that can photosynthesize.
3.The ocean is key to our economy
With an estimated 40 million people being employed in ocean-based industries by the year 2030.
4. Oceans absorb carbon dioxide
Oceans absorb about 30% of carbon dioxide produced by humans, which helps to buffer the impacts of global warming.
5. Coral Reefs are in danger
On World Oceans Day (sometimes also referred to as International Ocean Day), consider the fact that 50% of our planet’s coral reefs have been destroyed. We are taking way more from our oceans than what can be replenished – it’s time to work together to restore the vibrancy of our oceans and encourage new life to thrive.
6. The majority of marine pollution originates from land-based sources
The United Nations estimates that as much as 80% of global marine pollution originates from land-based sources. Do your part to reduce the amount of trash and pollution in our oceans by avoiding single-use plastics, recycling, participating in beach or ocean clean-up efforts, and supporting legislation to curb plastic production and waste.
7. Coastal Eutrophication keeps increasing
Without concerted efforts, coastal eutrophication is expected to increase in 20% of our large marine ecosystems by the year 2050. Harmful algal blooms, dead zones, and fish kills are the results of coastal eutrophication — this occurs when the environment becomes enriched with nutrients, increasing the amount of plant and algae growth to estuaries and coastal waters. This is just one example of why June 8th is not referred to as “National Oceans Day,” but World Oceans Day – because the entire world must play a role in awareness and advocacy.
8. Thousands of marine species are endangered or threatened
According to World Register of Marine Species, there are currently at least 236,878 named marine species (all living things found in the sea). Thousands are endangered or threatened.
Now that you have a few more facts about our oceans and know how you can help spread awareness on #WorldOceanDay, be sure to share this information with your family and friends.
