Celebrating World Oceans Day 2024 with Hydro Water Sports

Introduction

Covering 70% of the Earth’s surface, oceans are our planet’s lifeblood, providing protein for over three billion people and playing a critical role in regulating the global climate. They moderate temperatures, influence weather patterns, and serve as the world’s largest carbon sink. Oceans generate at least 50% of the planet’s oxygen, making their conservation vital. Despite their importance, our oceans are in peril; 90% of big fish populations are depleted, and 50% of coral reefs are destroyed. As we celebrate World Oceans Day 2023 on June 8, let’s explore how we can protect this invaluable resource.

History of World Oceans Day

World Oceans Day was first proposed in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to celebrate the ocean and humanity’s connection to it. The UN Division for Ocean Affairs has since introduced ways to help protect our oceans, raising awareness about their crucial role in our lives.

The UN’s initiatives and campaigns aim to:

• Promote Sustainable Fishing Practices: To prevent overfishing and ensure the long-term health of fish populations and marine ecosystems.
• Reduce Marine Pollution: To tackle issues like plastic pollution, chemical runoff, and oil spills that harm marine life and ecosystems.
• Protect Marine Habitats: To establish marine protected areas and conserve critical habitats like coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds.
• Raise Awareness and Education: To inform the public and policymakers about the importance of the oceans and the need for conservation efforts.

World Oceans Day 2024: “Planet Ocean: Tides are Changing”

World Oceans Day 2024 adopts the theme “Planet Ocean: Tides are Changing,” underscoring the urgency of establishing a new balance with the ocean to restore its health and vitality. This theme reflects the critical need for collective action to address the growing challenges faced by our oceans due to human activities. The United Nations-designated day aims to achieve several key objectives:

1. Educate the Public: Raising awareness about the significant impact of human actions on ocean health. This includes pollution, overfishing, climate change, and habitat destruction. Educational initiatives aim to inform people about how their everyday choices and behaviors can affect the oceans.
2. Foster a Global Movement: Encouraging the formation of a worldwide network of ocean advocates who are passionate about protecting marine environments. By uniting individuals, communities, and organizations, the movement seeks to amplify efforts to preserve ocean health.
3. Mobilize Sustainable Management: Promoting sustainable practices and policies to ensure the long-term health of ocean ecosystems. This involves advocating for regulations and initiatives that protect marine biodiversity, reduce pollution, and mitigate the effects of climate change.

5 Actions to Protect the Ocean

1. Opt for Plastic-Free Alternatives Each year, over 80 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean, with a garbage truck’s worth dumped every minute. These plastics take centuries to decompose. We must demand plastic-free alternatives and avoid single-use plastics like straws, cutlery, coffee cups, water bottles, plastic bags, and takeout containers. Instead, use reusable containers.

1. Avoid Products That Harm the Ocean Many products contribute to harming endangered species, unsustainable fishing methods, and pollution. Avoid cosmetics containing shark squalene, jewelry made from coral or sea turtle shells, and souvenir shells. These items support unsustainable practices that threaten marine ecosystems.

1. Eat Sustainable Seafood While adopting a plant-based diet is ideal, it’s not feasible for everyone. If you eat seafood, ensure it’s sustainable. Use resources like Seafood Watch to make informed choices and refer to eco-certification guides for sustainable seafood options.

1. Adopt Ocean-Friendly Habits Small changes in our daily lives can reduce our negative impact on the ocean. Conserve water, use less energy, reduce pollutants, and volunteer for beach clean-ups. Collective efforts can lead to a cleaner, healthier ocean.

1. Support Organizations Working to Protect the Ocean Numerous organizations work to protect ocean habitats and marine wildlife. Consider providing financial support or volunteering with an organization that resonates with you. If you live near the coast, get involved with local groups and projects.

Conclusion

On World Oceans Day 2024, let’s remember the importance of the ocean and the consequences of its degradation. We must reconnect with the ocean sustainably to ensure its benefits for future generations. Join us at Hydro Water Sports in our commitment to protecting and celebrating our oceans. For more information on our eco- friendly practices and upcoming events, visit our website and follow us on social media.