World Oceans Day is held annually on June 8th. The ocean covers over 70% of planet earth and is the source of our life as it supports humanity’s sustenance and that of every organism on earth. It produces 50% of earth’s oxygen. The oceans are home to most of the earth’s biodiversity and is the main source of protein for more than one billion people around the world. The oceans are key to the economy of many countries with about 40 million people being employed by ocean-based industries by 2030.

There are so many benefits of the oceans, we could not live and survive without it but it is now in need of support.

90% of fish populations are depleted
50% of coral reefs have been destroyed

We are taking more from oceans than can be replenished.

A new balance needs to be created in order to protect and preserve the oceans. This balance must be rooted in a true understanding of the oceans and how we, as humanity, relates with them. An inclusive, innovative and informed connection needs to be made and we must learn lessons from the past and these lessons must inform our future relationship with the oceans.

This is a day to remind everyone the major role the oceans play in our everyday lives. The oceans are the lungs of earth and a major source of food and medicine and are an essential part of the biosphere.

World Oceans Day 2021 – ‘The Ocean: Life and Livelihoods’ – will launch a decade of challenges to get the Sustainable Development Goal 14 – ‘Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources.

©️TCfR