Today, June 8, is a day for the entire world to come together and celebrate the heart and lungs of our planet – the ocean.
On World Oceans Day we rejoice in everything the ocean has and continues to unconditionally provide for all of humanity. A lifeline to our existence, the ocean is not only an abundant source of food for millions of people, but also supplies more than 50% of the oxygen we need to survive.
Today we give gratitude and marvel at the beauty of what blankets more than 71 percent of the earth’s surface. Below this surface we are greeted by a vast home of an astonishing collection of wildlife, including over 1 million species of plants and animals, with millions more awaiting to be discovered.
On World Oceans Day, we honour the world’s oceans by spreading awareness and providing a unique opportunity for everyone to take personal and community action to ensure its protection.
No matter where we live, the ocean has an undeniable impact on our lives. Its vast magnificence not only connects us globally, but without its conservation, the health and safety of our society for future generations are at risk. Through awareness and human action we have the power to care for the ocean as it does for us.
Our Dolphin Encounters family encourages you to become a part of the worldwide movement of citizens for the ocean by embracing this year’s theme: healthy oceans, healthy planet.
Below are a few ways you can do your part in protecting the health of our oceans future:
- Limit the use of plastic materials
- Use reusable bags when shopping
- Opt for products that were made with recyclable or biodegradable materials
- Purchase sustainably sourced seafood
- Get involved with your community: Volunteer work i.e. Beach cleanups
World Oceans Day has unofficially been celebrated every June 8 since its original proposal in 1992 by Canada at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It has been organized since 2003 by The Ocean Project and the United Nations formally recognized it in 2008. Every year since its first introduction, this special day has grown in contribution worldwide. But we need you to help us spread this initiative so everyone understands the importance of protecting our worlds oceans for decades to come.