Every year on June 8, World Oceans Day is observed to raise public awareness about the importance of oceans and the importance of protecting and safeguarding marine resources.
World Oceans Day serves as a timely reminder to recognise and value the importance of the oceans in our lives, from providing food to regulating and sustaining biodiversity and the climate.
Humans have been exploiting the oceans for many years. Some well-known examples of exploitation include pollution, the destruction of aquatic habitats, overfishing, and ocean acidification.
World Oceans Day is recognised with the aim to reduce the reckless exploitation of oceans and develop sustainable measures to protect them. Several measures like demolishing the use of plastics, developing strong environmental policies, and implementing rules and regulations to support sustainable seafood choices are some of the effective ways to protect precious natural resources like oceans.
History
The concept of celebrating ocean day on a global level was first proposed in 1992 by the Canadian government at the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Since the proposal was highly supported and appreciated by delegates, the UN General Assembly passed an official resolution to celebrate the 8 June as the World Oceans Day.
Theme
Every year, the World Oceans Day is celebrated under a specific theme. This year, the theme of World Oceans day 2023 is “Planet Ocean: The Tides are Changing.”
Significance
World Oceans Day is recognized annually to take actionable measures and initiatives regarding preservation of marine ecosystems, adoption of sustainable fishing practices, reducing pollution of oceans, and other major ocean related problems.
Every year, on the occasion of World Oceans Day, activities, seminars, educational workshops, and events are held by government and non-government organizations to aware people about the harmful effects of exploiting the oceans.
World Oceans Day has become quite popular over the years on an international level. It provides a platform for people to raise awareness about the role of oceans in supporting life on earth, and take steps to protect these precious natural resources for the upcoming generations.
The World’s Top Most Beautiful Beaches
Praia da Marinha, Portugal
Between the coastal towns of Lagoa and Carvoeiro sits the “Golden Beach” of Portugal. Praia da Marinha is regarded as one of the most breathtaking beaches in Europe for its orange limestone cliffs and sparkling blue waters. While the beach is rather small, there’s plenty of fun to be had hiking the cliffs of the coast and snorkeling in the Mediterranean Sea
Placencia Beach, Belize
Placencia Beach is located off the tip of the Placencia Peninsula along the southeastern tip of Belize. Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and ripe rainforests, Placencia has so much more to offer than just sand and the sun. The palm tree-dotted paradise is home to a quaint fishing village, waterfalls, and Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, which is the world’s only jaguar preserve.
Navagio Bay, Zakynthos, Greece
Also known as Shipwreck Cove, Navagio Bay, Zakynthos, Greece touts brilliant blue waters surrounded by towering cliffs. It’s reportedly one of the most photographed places in Greece—and it’s clear to see why. One thing to note: It’s most easily accessed by water.
St. Lucia
St. Lucia may have world-class beaches, but the beach itself is best known for the massive pitons (mountainous volcanic plugs that are dormant) looming in the background. Talk about a beautiful backdrop.
Ko Phi Phi, Thailand
Looking for crystal-clear waters ripe with snorkeling adventures surrounded by palm trees and mountains just waiting to be explored? Ko Phi Phi in Thailand is calling your name.
Anse Source d’Argent in Seychelles
Granite boulders surround this picturesque pink sand beach. Covered in lush greenery and surrounded by pristine turquoise waters, Anse Source d’Argent in Seychelles is a sight to behold.
The Maldives
Chances are, you’ve had pictures of The Maldives floating around your computer as a screensaver at least once in your life. The beach paradise is renowned for its vivid blue waters and winding oceanfront boardwalks.
Hanalei Bay, Kauai, Hawaii
You don’t have to venture outside of the United States to discover one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Instead, head to Hanalei Bay in Kauai, Hawaii to surround yourself with lush green mountains, turquoise waters, and white sands.
Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
Virgin Gorda is a Caribbean beach that’s unique for its boulder-rimmed pools, which make for incredibly refreshing wading pools. If white sand is your goal, head to nearby Spring Bay or Devil’s Bay.
Ora Beach, Moluccas, Seram Island, Indonesia
Hoping to explore the forest and coral reefs while on your next beach vacation? Consider a trip to Ora Beach, Moluccas, Seram Island, Indonesia. The water cottages alone will make you want to go back time and time again.
