Today is World Oceans Day, celebrated globally to raise awareness of the importance of the ocean and how we can treat it sustainably.
The United Nations first declared June 8 the annual day to celebrate and discuss the preservation of the beauty of the world back in 2008, and today the world will unite around this cause again.
The UN says: “The ocean connects, sustains, and supports us all. Yet its health is at a tipping point and so is the well-being of all that depends on it.
“As the past years have shown us, we need to work together to create a new balance with the ocean that no longer depletes its bounty but instead restores its vibrancy and brings it new life.”
Find out everything you need to know about World Oceans Day below, including how to get involved.
What is World Oceans Day?
World Oceans Day has been celebrated in countries across the world since 1992, following the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development.
The United Nations General Assembly then declared June 8 World Oceans Day in 2008 and the event has been celebrated annually since 2009.
The UN says: “On this day, we have an opportunity to raise global awareness of the benefits humankind derives from the ocean and our individual and collective duty to use its resources sustainably.
“Future generations will also depend on the oceans for their livelihoods.
“The United Nations is joining forces with decision makers, scientists, private sector executives, civil society representatives, indigenous communities, celebrities and youth activists and more to put the ocean first.”
World Oceans Day 2023 theme
The theme of this year’s United Nations World Oceans Day is ‘Planet Ocean: Tides are Changing’.
It aims to push the notion that the “ocean is in need of support” and raise awareness of the damage that is being done to the fish populations.
It also calls for more to be done to “create a new balance” in the world’s oceans where the “vibrance” can be restored.
It says: “The ocean covers over 70% of the planet. It is our life source, supporting humanity’s sustenance and that of every other organism on earth.
“The ocean produces at least 50% of the planet’s oxygen, it is home to most of the earth’s biodiversity, and is the main source of protein for more than a billion people around the world. Not to mention, the ocean is key to our economy with an estimated 40 million people being employed by ocean-based industries by 2030.
“Even though all its benefits, the ocean is now in need of support.”
What is happening in London?
The National Maritime Museum in Greenwich will celebrate the day with a free Family Festival. However, the event will take place over the weekend on June 10, from 10am to 5pm.
A host of scientists, conservation charities, artists and community groups will put on an entire day of events and oceanic activities which will be suitable for all ages.
On their website, it says: “Featuring live music, expert talks and demonstrations, craft workshops, face painting and more, World Oceans Day at the National Maritime Museum will be a fantastic opportunity for families to learn more about contemporary maritime and environmental challenges.
For more information on the schedule for the day, you can visit here and scroll to the bottom of the page for the full list.
You can also book tickets for the free event here.
The UN also has a calendar listing all World Oceans Day events taking place around the world. There are taking place both in-person and online, so browse the calendar to find the right one for you.
You can also stream the UN’s official talks when you RSVP online.
