World Oceans Day

World Oceans Day History

World Oceans Day seeks to raise awareness regarding the interconnectedness of Earth’s vast water bodies, the role they play in supporting multiple ecosystems, and the myriad benefits they offer to humankind. Drawing attention to current challenges, such as marine pollution and climate change, the observance seeks to inspire collective stewardship of this invaluable shared resource. The day serves as an opportunity for nations to collaborate, spreading knowledge and encouraging action towards the conservation and sustainable use of the world's oceans, their coastlines, and marine life.

The roots of World Oceans Day can be traced back to the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, where numerous countries, including Canada, acknowledged their shared responsibilities towards ocean conservation. In 2008, the United Nations officially designated June 8 as World Oceans Day. Canada has a vested interest in these efforts, as it possesses the longest coastline in the world, stretching over 202,080 kilometers, and boasts numerous marine ecosystems teeming with biodiversity. Given the environmental, economic, and cultural importance of these waters, Canadians are in a prime position to effect lasting positive change through their contributions to this global movement.

Each year on June 8, Canadians from coast to coast participate in a variety of activities to honour and protect the oceans. These may include local beach clean-ups, educational workshops, sustainable seafood events, and marine conservation-focused presentations. Through these initiatives, citizens of all ages engage in conversations about ocean health, learn about the unique marine life that inhabits Canadian waters, and gain a deeper understanding of the actions they can take to ensure the vitality of these critical ecosystems for future generations.

World Oceans Day facts

• The world's oceans have a combined area of approximately 361 million square kilometers (139 million square miles). The Pacific Ocean is the largest and covers about 63 million square miles (165 million square kilometers).
• The average depth of the world's oceans is about 3,800 meters (12,467 feet). The deepest point in the ocean is the Mariana Trench in the western Pacific, reaching a depth of about 10,928 meters (35,856 feet).
• It is estimated that approximately 8 million metric tons of plastic waste enter the oceans each year.
• Canada has the world's longest coastline, bordering three oceans - the Atlantic Ocean, Arctic Ocean, and Pacific Ocean. It is home to a diverse range of marine ecosystems and vast underwater geological formations.
• Canada is home to the Bay of Fundy, which has the highest tides in the world. The bay's tidal range can reach up to 53 feet (16 meters), providing a unique and rich habitat for various marine species.

In the News and Trending in Canada for World Oceans Day

Top things to do in Canada for World Oceans Day

• If you live near an ocean, spend time swimming in the water, sailing, surfing or just walking along the beach. If you don't live near an ocean, plan a trip to enjoy ocean.
• Get your scuba diving license. Every city offers scuba lessons to prepare you see the underwater world. PADI and SDI are two well-known and reputable companies that offer certification courses. You cannot scuba dive without certification.
• Various marine centers, such as the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, the Huntsman Marine Science Centre, and the Marine Environmental Observation Prediction and Response Network (MEOPAR), host events related to World Oceans Day to spread awareness about ocean conservation and the marine environment.
• Visit one of Canada's National Marine Conservation Areas, like the Gwaii Haanas National Marine Conservation Area in British Columbia or the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park in Quebec, and learn about marine conservation efforts.