Every year on June 8th, people around the world come together to celebrate World Oceans Day, a moment to honour the vast, life-giving oceans that cover over 70% of our planet! When celebrating, we are reminded of our responsibility to protect ocean health and consider the actions we take to protect it.
Why World Oceans Day Matters
Regulating our climate, producing the oxygen we breathe, and providing a home to all the plants and marine life we hold dear are just a few of the incredible things our oceans do, not to mention the livelihoods they provide through tourism, trade, and food. Despite all of this, the greatest threat that the oceans face… is humans. Centuries of pollution, overfishing and habitat destruction are taking their toll on the world’s oceans. Today creates an incredible platform for awareness, and across the globe, people will use this opportunity to protest for change on an immense scale. From beach cleanups and educational events to large-scale protests, it’s a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together to protect our oceans.
This Year’s Theme: Sustainable Fishing
The 2025 theme, “Sustainable Fishing for a Thriving Future,” draws attention to the urgent need for responsible fishing practices. Overfishing depletes fish populations, and destructive fishing gear kills hundreds of thousands of dolphins, whales, and porpoises every year. Safe fishing practices must be implemented. How can we sustain something that sustains us? Overfishing can drive cetaceans away from their natural habitats, both from hunting and lack of food and some small cetacean species are nearing extinction primarily because of illegal nets. Sustainable fishing means leaving enough fish in the ocean and respecting habitats.
A Time to Reflect and Act
World Oceans Day serves as both a time to reflect on the consequences that human activity has had on the oceans and simultaneously a fantastic way to look around and see not only how far we have come in protecting our oceans but also the large scale this is happening. We encourage you to use this day to read more on the current situation affecting the oceans and spread your love for the incredible biodiversity we have been granted to enjoy on our planet. Our passion for policy change, education and conservation efforts is something that needs to be shared for real change to happen! Research what is going on in your area, consider helping with a beach clean or educational talk, if none are happening, then why not host one yourself on behalf of Marine Connection? There are webinars, protests and petitions taking place across the globe, so there is plenty to get involved in.
Together, we can create a world where our passion for healthy oceans is mirrored with real action!
