World Oceans Day

World Oceans Day History

World Oceans Day is an annual observance established to celebrate the vital role oceans play in our lives and to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining their health and sustainability. The core purpose of this global event is promoting the appreciation and understanding of our blue planet's significance in biodiversity preservation, climate regulation, and economic resources. Through collaborative initiatives, individuals, communities, and organizations are encouraged to participate in delivering the message of ocean conservation and sustainable use, aiming for a broader positive impact on the environment.

The United Nations formally recognized World Oceans Day in 2008. However, the concept originated during the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. For the United Kingdom, oceans play a significant role in the country's history, culture, and economy. The UK, as an island nation, heavily relies on its surrounding seas for trade, tourism, and maritime industries. Additionally, the UK has a global maritime influence, meaning that it plays a crucial part in international collaborative efforts towards protecting the oceans and ensuring that future generations can also benefit from them.

In the United Kingdom, World Oceans Day events take place across the country, including coastal clean-ups, educational workshops, and conservation-themed exhibitions. Through various marine organizations and environmental charities, people are encouraged to get involved in locally organized activities. These can range from beach litter picking to submitting online pledges promising to make a conscious effort to reduce plastic waste. Occurring on 8th June each year, World Oceans Day serves as a reminder for the UK public to stay connected to the oceans and contribute to global conservation efforts.

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.
• The UK's maritime sector contributes an estimated £46.1 billion to the country's economy each year and employs approximately 186,000 people.
• The coastline of the United Kingdom is about 12,429 miles (19,999 kilometers) long, making it the 12th longest national coastline in the world.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Oceans Day

Top things to do in the UK 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.
• Watch a documentary to learn more about marine life in the UK. Here are our top picks:
  1. Britain's Secret Seas (2011) - A four-part BBC documentary series that delves into the hidden wonders of Britain's seas, exploring the stunning coastline and the creatures that inhabit the UK's underwater world.
  2. The Great British Oceans (2015) - A short documentary produced to raise awareness about the unique and diverse marine life found in the waters around the UK's overseas territories.
  3. Coast (2005-2015) - An informative and entertaining BBC documentary series exploring the natural and cultural heritage of the British Isles by focusing on different coastal areas, including marine life and ecosystems.
• The UK offers a diverse range of beautiful coastlines and beaches, from the rugged cliffs of Cornwall to the sandy shores of Dorset. World Oceans Day offers an excellent opportunity to explore these natural wonders.