Oceans are the driving force behind the sustainability of life on Earth. Between 50% and 80% of the oxygen in the atmosphere is produced by the ocean. Oceans are also responsible for regulating the global climate by absorbing carbon dioxide. They are the largest food reserve and a major protein source for billions of people around the world. Additionally, oceans are rich in medicines. Oceans play a critical role in the world’s economy, as 90% of global trade is carried out by sea. It is estimated that approximately 40 million people will be employed by ocean-based industries by 2030. Hence, oceans are truly a blessing to humankind.

However, we are on the verge of losing our oceans and their marine populations. Human activities such as the intentional discharge of waste into oceans, large-scale oil spills from ships, ocean mining, the discharge of industrial sewage toxic to marine life, the use of unauthorized fishing gear, and unrestrained fishing all contribute to marine pollution and ocean acidification. As a result, 90% of large fish populations have been depleted, and 50% of coral reefs have been destroyed. Due to the actions of humankind, the delicate balance between humans and oceans has been disrupted. We are taking more from the ocean than can be replenished. If this continues, ocean populations and marine ecosystems will cease to exist. A proper management system and a set of defined regulations are required for the sustainable use and conservation of ocean ecosystems for the future. The importance of the oceans should be made clear to the general public, and awareness about the need to protect oceans and marine life should be increased. Only then will we be able to save our oceans.

The concept of World Oceans Day was first proposed in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro as a way to celebrate our world’s shared ocean, our personal connection to the sea, and to raise awareness about the crucial role the ocean plays in our lives. It also aims to highlight the important ways people can help protect the ocean. Following that, in 2008, the United Nations declared June 8th of every year as World Oceans Day. The purpose of celebrating World Oceans Day is to inform the public about the impact of human actions on the ocean, develop a global movement for ocean protection, and unite the world’s population on a project for the sustainable management of the world’s oceans.

As residents of an island nation, many people in our country depend on the ocean for food, livelihood, and other needs. We, MEPA, as the pioneers of ocean protection in the nation, carry out many activities in conjunction with World Oceans Day every year. These activities include awareness programs, events, exhibitions, and competitions. Our goal is to increase awareness of the importance of sustainably using marine resources and the need to safeguard the oceans within communities.

Ultimately, World Oceans Day is a day to enjoy the beauty of the oceans, admire their wealth, remember the importance of oceans for life on Earth, and be thankful for everything we receive from the oceans. It is also a day to pledge to keep the oceans safe, ensuring that the delicate balance between oceans and humans is sustained forever.