World ocean day is an international day that falls on June 8 annually. Firstly, the concept was developed by Canada’s international center for ocean Development (ICOD). Also, the ocean institute of Canada in 1992 at earth summit.
The main purpose of this day is to aware the general public about the importance of the ocean. Also, to make them realize the ocean is the lungs of the planet, earth. Moreover, this day aims in mobilizing people all around the globe for sustainable management of oceans.
History of the world ocean day
At first, Ocean day was declared at Rio de Genero in 1992 at a global forum(event parallel to united nation conference on environment and development). As a result, this provided an opportunity for non-governmental organizations to express their views on growing environmental issues and their impact.
Also, this discussion brought an idea to honor the majesty of the ocean on this day. However, it was not in practice until the intergovernmental oceanographic commission of UNESCO made a voice for international celebration.
Secondly, in 2002, two conservation organizations, the ocean project, and the world ocean network started its observance. After two years in 2004, they launched a petition to a united nation in order to officially recognize it. As a result, in 2008 the general assembly of the united nation declared June 8 as a world ocean day.
Themes
Ever since its declaration by the united nation, it has been observing with a theme like that of environmental day.
| Year | Theme |
| 2009 | Our ocean, our responsibilities |
| 2010 | Our ocean, opportunities, and challenges |
| 2011 | Our oceans, greening our future |
| 2012 | Knowing our ocean |
| 2013 | Oceans and people |
| 2014 | Ocean sustainability |
| 2015 | Healthy ocean, healthy planet |
| 2016 | Healthy ocean, healthy planet |
| 2017 | Our ocean, our future |
| 2018 | Clean our ocean |
| 2019 | Gender and oceans |
| 2020 | Innovations for sustainable ocean |
Celebration
Ever since its official announcement, every year this day has been celebrating by a message through secretary-general. of the united nation. However, the program varies by region to region and country to country.
Moreover, awareness-based programs including speeches, sayings, and ocean cleaning programs are conducted. Furthermore, a waste collection program, ocean-themed project for children are conducted.
Why do we observe the world ocean day?
This day is mainly observed with the purpose of raising and creating awareness regarding the marine ecosystem and also its preservation. Also, it is to notify people that the 3/4 part of the earth is covered by water. As a result, its protection is important.
Likewise, these days with the increase in urbanization and industrialization, people have become more careless with water sources. For instance, the dumping of waste products in water sources has adversely affected marine diversity.
So this particular day is marked in order to honor the water system and make people aware about its conservation.
Ocean day 2020
Likewise, Ocean day 2020 is celebrated with a theme innovation for sustainable ocean. The word “innovation” makes a sense of better ideas, techniques, and methods also its better future.
Also, this theme makes the aim to make a sustainable projects to control water-related problems. Also, it has brought new ideas to create sustainability in the protection of the world ocean.
To sum up, the ocean has made it possible to support life on earth. It provides proteins for about 30 percent of the world population and also absorbs carbon dioxide.
