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World Oceans Day8 June
Despite the central role the ocean plays in our planet’s balance, we actually do not know much about its mysteries. In fact, most of the waters remain largely unexplored, as we have only explored about a tenth of their depths.
Photo:Alex Rose/Unsplash
Awaken New Depths
The ocean covers over 70% of the planet. It is our life source, supporting humanity’s sustenance and that of every other organism on earth.
The ocean produces at least 50% of the planet’s oxygen, it is home to most of earth’s biodiversity, and is the main source of protein for more than a billion people around the world. Not to mention, the ocean is key to our economy with an estimated 40 million people being employed by ocean-based industries by 2030.
Even though all its benefits, the ocean is now in need of support.
With 90% of big fish populations depleted, and 50% of coral reefs destroyed, we are taking more from the ocean than can be replenished. We need to work together to create a new balance with the ocean that no longer depletes its bounty but instead restores its vibrancy and brings it new life.
“Awaken New Depths” is the theme for World Oceans Day 2024. The UN is joining forces with decision-makers, indigenous leaders, scientists, private sector executives, civil society, celebrities, and youth activists toshowcase how our relationship with the ocean needs to urgently change since our efforts to date have only skimmed the surface. To motivate widespread momentum for the ocean, we need to awaken new depths.
Visit the official UN World Oceans Day website!
Visit the official website to learn more about the International Day, find out about news and celebrations, or read the latest news and reports on the oceans.
Join us and celebrate the value of oceans
World Oceans Day reminds every one of the major role the oceans have in everyday life. They are the lungs of our Planet and a major source of food and medicine and a critical part of the biosphere.
The purpose of the Day is to inform the public of the impact of human actions on the ocean, develop a worldwide movement of citizens for the ocean, and mobilize and unite the world’s population on a project for the sustainable management of the world's oceans.
This year, the United Nations will host a hybrid celebrationof the annual event on Friday 7 June 2024, hosted in-person at the UN Headquarters in New York to be broadcast live. It will highlight the 2024 theme of "Awaken New Depths".
Hosted by the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea of the Office of Legal Affairs of the United Nations, in partnership withthe non-profit organization Oceanic Global, this year’s annual event will shed light on how we can work together to ensure the ocean’s health and well-being.
Did you know?
- The ocean produces at least 50% of the planet’s oxygen.
- The ocean is key to our economy with an estimated 40 million people being employed by ocean-based industries by 2030.
- Oceans absorb about 30% of carbon dioxide produced by humans, buffering the impacts of global warming.
Sign up for this digital event that takes place on 7 June, and discover other events around the world. You can access the programme of the event here.
Thursday, 7 June 2024
10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. EDT
Photo contest: Enjoy the most beautiful photos of the oceans
Discover the beauty of the oceans thanks to thephoto contestorganized by the United Nations on the occasion of World Oceans Day. This year's winners will be published shortly, but in the meantime, you can see our exhibit with the finalists from the previous edition and get ready, camera in hand... to participate in the next edition!
In March 2023, UN Delegates reached a historic agreement on protecting marine biodiversity in international waters after nearly two decades of talks. Already being referred to as the ‘High Seas Treaty’, the legal framework would put more money into marine conservation and covers access to and use of marine genetic resources.
The splendor of the reefs in 360 degrees
Not all of us can dive into the ocean to enjoy its splendor and richness. That is whyThe Ocean Agencyallows us to experience the seas through its 360-degree images. Dive with us on a tour through corals to learn about the importance of ocean conservation. Jump right in!
Why do we mark International Days?
International days and weeks are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity. The existence of international days predates the establishment of the United Nations, but the UN has embraced them as a powerful advocacy tool. We also markother UN observances.
