World Oceans Day is held on 8 June. Established on 8 June 1992 during the environmental summit in Rio de Janeiro and recognised in 2008 by the United Nations too, its purpose is to underline the importance of this inestimable shared heritage, covering 71% of our planet. The oceans, in fact, regulate the climate, provide sustenance to millions of people every year, produce most of the oxygen we breathe, are home to an incredible amount of biodiversity, provide us with important drugs and much more!
The theme of World Ocean Day 2021 is “The Ocean: Life and Livelihoods”. With 90% of large fish populations depleted and 50% of coral reefs destroyed, we are taking more from oceans than can be replenished by the oceans themselves. To protect and preserve oceans and all that they sustain, we must create a new balance, rooted in a true understanding of oceans and how humanity relates to them. We need to build a connection with oceans that is inclusive, innovative and based on the lessons of the past.
In order to ensure the health and safety of present and future generations, it is important that each of us accepts responsibility for taking care of the oceans, just as the oceans are taking care of us. Today the seas of the entire world are threatened by a growing human impact: overfishing, pollution, intensive development of maritime transport and infrastructures and acidification caused by climate change, which has devastating impacts on many oceanic systems, in particular on coral reefs. Currently less than 4% of oceans are protected, protected areas constitute a minimal part of the total area. Yet protecting the oceans would bring significant benefits, also from the economic point of view.
To find out more about the World Oceans Day click here.
