World Oceans Day facts for kids
Quick facts for kids World Ocean Day |
|
---|---|
A sunset over the White Sea
|
|
Observed by | All UN member states, including Argentina Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, the Philippines, Poland, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand and the United States |
Date | 8 June |
Next time | 8 June 2026 |
Frequency | Annual |
First time | 8 June 1992 |
World Ocean Day is a special day celebrated around the world every year on June 8. It's a time for everyone to think about how important our oceans are. This day helps us remember to protect the ocean and use its amazing resources wisely.
The idea for World Ocean Day first came from two groups in Canada in 1992. They suggested it at a big meeting called the Earth Summit in Brazil. Later, in 2008, the United Nations officially recognized June 8 as World Ocean Day. This day helps us work towards global goals for a better future, especially those related to our planet's waters.
Contents
World Ocean Day: Protecting Our Planet's Waters
Our planet's oceans are huge and full of life. They cover more than 70% of the Earth's surface. Oceans give us food, help control the weather, and are home to countless plants and animals. World Ocean Day reminds us that we all depend on a healthy ocean.
Why We Celebrate the Ocean
Celebrating the ocean helps us understand its value. It encourages people everywhere to learn about the challenges our oceans face. These challenges include pollution and overfishing. By learning, we can find ways to help.
The day also brings people together to take action. Many communities organize events like beach cleanups. Others host educational programs about marine life. These activities help raise awareness and inspire change.
How World Ocean Day Began
The journey to create World Ocean Day started many years ago. In 1987, a group called the Brundtland Commission noticed something important. They realized that the ocean wasn't getting enough attention. Other big topics seemed to have a stronger voice.
The First Steps in 1992
Because of this, in 1992, the idea for World Ocean Day was proposed. The goal was to make the ocean a main topic in important discussions. It also aimed to give a stronger voice to people who care about oceans and coasts. This helped bring ocean issues to the forefront of global talks.
What You Can Do for the Ocean
Even though you might be far from the ocean, you can still help!
- Reduce plastic use: Plastic often ends up in the ocean, harming marine animals. Try using reusable bags and water bottles.
- Save water: All water eventually connects to the ocean. Using less water at home helps protect this vital resource.
- Learn more: Read books or watch documentaries about ocean life. The more you know, the more you can share with others.
- Participate in cleanups: If you live near a coast or river, join a local cleanup event. Every piece of trash removed makes a difference.
- Support ocean-friendly choices: Ask your family to choose seafood that is caught sustainably. This helps prevent overfishing.
Every small action adds up to make a big difference for our amazing oceans!
See Also
- Coral Triangle Day
- European Maritime Day
- Marine pollution
- Ocean governance
- Overfishing
- Spaceship Earth