World Oceans Day
June 8, Saturday
World Oceans Day is celebrated annually on June 8 and aims to highlight the importance of preserving the oceans and marine ecosystems. Established by the UN in 2008, the day provides an opportunity to discuss global ocean issues such as pollution, climate change and depletion of marine resources, and encourages efforts to protect them.Goals of World Oceans Day
Raising awareness. The holiday aims to raise awareness of the problems facing the oceans, such as plastic pollution, overfishing, rising sea levels and the destruction of coral reefs.
Protecting ecosystems. Oceans cover more than 70% of the Earth's surface and are an important part of the ecological balance. Their preservation is critical for the survival of many species and for life on the planet itself.
Supporting sustainable use of resources. Oceans provide millions of jobs and resources for many people around the world. World Oceans Day aims to remind people to use these resources responsibly.
Fighting climate change. Oceans play a key role in regulating the planet’s climate by absorbing most of the carbon dioxide. Their health is directly linked to resilience to climate change.
Major issues related to the oceans
Plastic pollution. The oceans suffer from huge amounts of plastic, which pollutes the waters and threatens the lives of marine creatures. More than 8 million tons of plastic waste enters the oceans every year, creating a serious environmental disaster.
Climate change. Climate change causes water temperatures to rise, leading to the melting of glaciers, rising sea levels, and changing the habitats of marine species. Oceans absorb about 30% of the carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere, making them an important climate regulator.
Depletion of fish stocks. Due to unsustainable fishing and overfishing, many species are on the verge of extinction. This threatens not only the marine ecosystem, but also the millions of people who depend on fish resources.
Destruction of coral reefs. Coral reefs are home to a quarter of all marine species. However, rising water temperatures and pollution lead to their mass destruction, which causes irreparable damage to the ecosystem.
How is World Oceans Day celebrated
Coastal and ocean cleanup events. On this day, events are organized around the world to clean beaches, rivers and seas from garbage and plastic waste. Volunteers and environmental organizations participate in cleaning coastal zones and water bodies.
Information and educational campaigns. Lectures, seminars and exhibitions dedicated to the preservation of the oceans are held in schools, universities, museums and scientific centers. These events are aimed at raising public awareness of the importance of the oceans for life on the planet.
Discussions and conferences. Organizations working in the field of environmental protection hold international conferences and round tables to discuss new strategies for protecting the oceans and solutions to global environmental problems.
Media campaigns. Social networks play an important role in disseminating information about World Oceans Day. Hashtags like #WorldOceansDay help draw attention to global ocean issues.
Raising awareness of marine reserves. The day also calls for the creation and support of marine reserves – protected areas where marine life can thrive without human interference.
World Oceans Day in other years
World Oceans Day in other countries
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