World Oceans Day

World Oceans Day History

World Oceans Day is an annual event that celebrates the wonders and importance of our oceans. The observance aims to raise awareness about the health of the marine environment, encourage conservation efforts, and ultimately contribute to the protection of our shared blue planet. It serves as a global platform for the collaboration of scientists, policymakers, educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, and individuals that share an appreciation for and responsibility towards safeguarding the ocean's vital resources.

The concept of World Oceans Day was first initiated at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 before being formally recognized by the United Nations in 2008. Australians have a profound connection to the ocean, with the majority of the population living within 50 kilometers of the coast, relying on its resources for recreation, trade, and sustenance, making it a significant component of our national identity. The Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most diverse and spectacular natural treasures, is an iconic representation of the ocean's beauty and value to Australians. Climate change, plastic pollution, and habitat destruction threaten these ecosystems, making it crucial for Australians to engage in the Observance of World Oceans Day and contribute to efforts aimed at fostering a sustainable marine environment.

Australians tend to mark World Oceans Day with numerous events and activities across the country. These typically include beach clean-ups, educational workshops to raise awareness of pressing marine issues, and coastal restoration projects to enhance habitats for marine life. Communities may also come together for film screenings, art exhibitions, and public talks designed to inspire admiration and appreciation for the ocean. World Oceans Day is observed annually on June 8, offering the opportunity for Australians to advocate for the protection of our oceans.

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.
• Australia's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is the third largest in the world, covering more than 8.1 million square kilometers (3.1 million square miles) of ocean. This means Australia has special rights regarding the exploration and use of marine resources in these waters.
• The Great Barrier Reef, located in the Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland, is the world's largest coral reef system. The reefs stretch more than 2,300 kilometers (1,430 miles) and cover an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometers (133,000 square miles).

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Oceans Day

Top things to do in Australia 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 Australia. Here are our top picks:
  1. Australia's Ocean Odyssey: A Journey Down the East Australian Current (2020) - This three-part documentary series follows the East Australian Current, revealing the unique marine life and ecosystems found along its path, from the Great Barrier Reef to Antarctica.
  2. Ningaloo: Australia's Other Great Reef (2015) - This documentary showcases the pristine and lesser-known Ningaloo Reef off the coast of Western Australia, home to a diverse array of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and turtles.
  3. Turtle Journey: The Great Barrier Reef (2020) - This short animated film highlights the impacts of ocean pollution, climate change, and industrialization on the Great Barrier Reef and the creatures that call it home.
• Australia has countless coastal walking trails that allow visitors to appreciate its stunning shorelines. Choose a trail, such as the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk in Sydney or the Cape Byron walking track in Byron Bay, and celebrate World Oceans Day surrounded by breathtaking ocean views.