Today is world oceans day, a day of raising awareness of the oceans, their importance to the planet and the massive threat they face from human activity. Don’t worry, reefers, it’s not you, the issues are much bigger than that like rising sea temperatures, pollution from single-use plastic, and overfishing for food. So 193 UN Member States have come together on this day to recognise the importance of the oceans for global food security and as the primary regulator of global climate.

Unsustainable activity

The Oceans cover more than two-thirds of the earth’s surface and contain 97 per cent of the planet’s water. They support 3 billion people every year yet we litter them in an unsustainable fashion by purchasing one million plastic drinks bottles a minute and using 5 trillion plastic bags a year, much of which ends up in the oceans. Bottles and bags are designed for single-use, yet they remain floating around our oceans for decades, endangering aquatic life of all kinds and by 2050 the predictions are that there will be more plastic in the seas than fish.

Hope

But the ocean has so much still to give, providing possible cures for diseases, feeding people by way of sustainable fisheries, helping to fix poverty by providing livelihoods and it still has a possible one million species still waiting to be discovered. Areas decimated of fish can recover if allowed to, bleached coral can regrow and we can reduce and remove plastic. If we all work together, recruit our most passionate conservationists - our youth - and spread the message, together we can help to preserve our oceans for generations to come.

Take action

For 2020 World Oceans Day is growing the global movement to call on world leaders to protect 30% of our blue planet by 2030. This critical need is called 30x30. By safeguarding at least 30% of our ocean through a network of highly protected areas we can help ensure a healthy home for all.

To find out how you can do your bit for World Oceans Day today, visit https://worldoceansday.org/, find out what events are happening near you, sign the petition and use the hashtag #ProtectOurHome on all your social media. You care about and understand the Oceans, their delicate balance, and the needs of its inhabitants more than most.

Thank you.