One Ocean, One Climate, One Future – Together: Celebrating action this World Ocean Day
June 8, 2023
GUELPH, ON – June 8, 2023, is World Ocean Day, an international day that takes place annually. Originally started in 1992 by Canada’s International Centre for Ocean Development and the Ocean Institute of Canada in partnership with the United Nations, this day has become an international celebration and call to action.
The goal of World Ocean Day is to create awareness around the world about our oceans and to take action to help protect them. According to the World Ocean Day website, “World Ocean Day unites and rallies the world to protect and restore our blue planet.”
There are many ways that we can work together and independently to help save our oceans, some of the ways include:
- Conserving water – this helps less wastewater flow into the ocean
- Reducing pollutants
- Reducing waste
- Use less plastic and recycle or reuse the ones you do need
- Help clean up a local beach, conservation area or park
- Reduce your carbon footprint – unplug devices when not in use, take the stairs instead of an elevator, if able
- Shopping with sustainability in mind – when buying fish choose sustainable seafood, buy less and make sure you always have your reusable bags with you
- Reducing vehicle pollution – biking, rolling or walking to school or work helps reduces air pollution, which helps our oceans
- Buy ocean friendly products, including cosmetics, cleaning products and sunscreens
- Fish responsibly – use catch and release practices if fishing for fun
- Don’t purchase products that are made from marine life – turtle shells, coral jewelry, shark products etc.
- Practice safe boating – anchor in sandy areas away from coral and sea grasses
- Respect habitats – treat our waterways and their habitats with care
- Educate yourself about protecting oceans and the environment and help spread the word to family members and peers
To learn more about World Ocean Day or to access resources, please visit the World Ocean Day website.
How will you be taking action this World Ocean Day? Let us know using #UGSustainability and #UGLearnGreen.
Categories: News Tags: Sustainability • UGLearnGreen